Max wattage light bulb on 12 volt system?

[fishtrap2]

Is there a max light bulb wattage you can run on a 12 volt system? I checked for juice at the receptical, but the bulb I put in won't light up. Only thing I can think of is to try a lower wattage bulb. Any tips?

[walleyedr2]

fishtrap any 12 volt bulb installed corectlt will work try it directly from the battery

[P Gottshall]

- that is assuming you have a decent battery. P (watts) = V (12V) x I (amps).
If your battery's Amp*hour rating is too small, or if it's discharged too far, to deliver I (the juice), the bulb's not going to glow brightly.
Walleye's right, given a good power-source, any 12V bulb should be OK.

Paul

[fishtrap2]

I've got the most powerfull deep-cell battery that Interstate makes, and it is new. The old bulb worked, then burnt out. I replaced it with in days and it did not work, so I tried a different bulb, no luck... I hate electricty!

[walleyedr2]

sure you atre using a 12 volt bulb? go directly to battery see what happens

[walleyedr2]

if it is a 12 volt bulb it should handle 12 volts un less there is a step down in line

[EBass]

Just guessing, but all my elec mishaps are due to a bad ground.

[fishtrap2]

Maybe I'm not using the right bulb. The fixture is a standard chain pull type. Tests ok with the test lamp. Do they make 12volt bulbs that are the same size as standard house bulbs? I didn,t pay much attention to the bulb that I took out, I looked like a standard bulb to me. Thanks for the help guys.

[Walleye Guy]

FT2,

Look at the end of the bulb to make sure it is a 12 volt bulb. It will be clearly labeled. They do make 12 volt incandescent bulbs that look exactly like 120 volt bulds you use in your house. The 12 volt bulbs are made for use in RV's etc.

A 12 volt battery will not light up a 120 volt bulb.

Good luck.

WG

[This message has been edited by Walleye Guy (edited 12-01-2003).]

[Uncle Grump]

Have you checked the socket / fixture w/ a test lamp? Also check ALL your connections.
Make sure you have a good ground too.

Am willing to bet you will find something loose or possibly burnt out (like a fuse)out somewhere. 12V power is pretty simple.

UG