Engine rpm light bulb out - what type?

Pat T

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Feb 15, 2009
162
Catalina 36MKII Waukegan, IL
My rpm light went out on the engine panel. You don't notice this until you have to sail at night. I know you have to take the panel apart to get at the bulb from behind the gauge. I think the panel was made by Seaward? Has anyone replaced this bulb? Just wondering if this is a standard or if I have to special order from somewhere? I assume it is low watt bulb? Thanks.
 

jviss

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Feb 5, 2004
7,090
Tartan 3800 20 Westport, MA
I have. My tach has two, I think. It's a wedge-style bulb, but I replaced with LEDs. There's a twist-lock, bayonet style bulb holder.
 
Jan 11, 2014
13,994
Sabre 362 113 Fair Haven, NY
Not to start a great debate on the relative merits of LEDs vs incandescent bulbs, however, this (tachometer light) is an application where an incandescent is just fine. The tach light will only be lit when the engine is running, the power will come from the alternator and not draw down the battery. The only advantage to an LED in this application is longevity.
 

jviss

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Feb 5, 2004
7,090
Tartan 3800 20 Westport, MA
The only advantage to an LED in this application is longevity.
And coolness. My gauges are damaged by the heat of the incandescent bulbs. It starts out by the blue plastic turning brown, and then it gets brittle. I had to get bulb holders with pigtails because the damage to the plastic disabled the built-in contact feature. Plus, LEDs are available in colors - I got red.
 
Jan 11, 2014
13,994
Sabre 362 113 Fair Haven, NY
And coolness. My gauges are damaged by the heat of the incandescent bulbs. It starts out by the blue plastic turning brown, and then it gets brittle. I had to get bulb holders with pigtails because the damage to the plastic disabled the built-in contact feature. Plus, LEDs are available in colors - I got red.
OK, good reasons.