Next message: Rufus Laggren: "Re: lv-ab: Combining Bilge pump discharges"
>Jim -- I've used halogen bulbs for other purposes, not running lights.
Sounds
>like a very good deal you've described. However ... some random thoughts.
>
>There's always a however. I've had three halogens of various types burn
out
>after only a few minutes (!) on a fresh battery. That was a few years ago,
so
>maybe there's some industry experience by now to make them a bit more
>voltage-rugged.
>Bulb lifetimes vary exponentially, inversely with the operating voltage.
I'd be
>concerned that these halogens might be designed with a lifetime based on a
>12.6v or less battery, but when you're running the engine your system will
be
>operating at 13.6 to 14.4 if your batteries are being charged. Although it
>would apply to any bulb, that would surely shorten life. In effect, you
need a
>14-15v halogen if such exists. Are these spec'd for mobile use, or for a
>flashlight (no active generator)?
>From the answers to this thread, it sounds like there is agreement that
Halogens have a shorter lifespan. I can't argue that point, but here's
what our experience has been.
About 4 or 5 years ago I wanted better lighting for the interior of Rainbow
Chaser. I located some desk lamps with a flexible shaft, mounted on a base
with a transformer. Bought some at Kmart, some at Office Depot for under
$20 ea. I cut off the base and transformer, threw them away. Mounted the
lamp's shaft in base made of a scrap of teak, added a $1 switch from Radio
Shack, called it an interior light. We've had 7 in regular use since
then.
They've been used regurlarly, living aboard at the dock with the batteries
charging at about 13.8 volts for a year, cruising for a year charging at
14.4 volts daily. We have not had one fail yet.
Gene Gruender
Rainbow Chaser
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