Dash Lights

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Could anyone clarify whether the dash light bulbs, such as the “Check Engine” and “Battery” indicators, are 12V or 24V? Is there a specific part number for these bulbs, and can they be found at an automotive store, or are they unique to Prevost or the converter?

Additionally, what’s the best method to remove the bulbs from their sockets? I’ve been trying to use a pair of hemostats with tape on the ends to avoid breaking them, but it hasn’t been very effective.

[MyPrevost]

I can’t provide the voltage answer, but I do have a solution for the hemostats. If you can find a pair of loop-end hemostats (instead of straight-end ones), you can use a product called PLASTI DIP. Just dip the ends until you achieve your desired thickness of rubber; it works much better than tape. This product creates a grippy rubber surface, and it’s available in both liquid and spray forms.

[MyPrevost]

Ed, I wasn’t aware that loop-end hemostats were available, but I’ll look into it. I’m familiar with Plasti Dip as well.
Dale & Paulette

[MyPrevost]

Dale, it’s likely that the bulbs are 24V on your coach. Just to be sure, you can verify this with a multimeter.

[MyPrevost]

Dale,

I replaced all the rocker and instrument bulbs in my Marathon with 12V bulbs, except for the warning lights. If I remember correctly, most of them are 24V, but there are a couple—like the check engine light—that use 12V, as they work with the engine and transmission computers.

As Jon suggested, make sure to check with a meter first. If you need 24V mini bulbs, don’t buy any—I have a bunch of them that I removed, and you can have them at POG4.

Tom Chilcote
Trans-Specialists RV Batteries
tom@transpspecialists.net

[MyPrevost]

In my ’96 Country Coach they are 12V

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Before I sent the post last night, I went out to the bus and tried to check the voltage on one of the bulbs. Getting the bulb out was quite a challenge on its own. However, for some reason, I couldn’t get a reading with my voltmeter.

Thinking about it this morning, I realized that by the time I got the meter probes positioned in the socket, the light had probably timed out, so there was no voltage. I’ll give it another shot today.

Are these bulbs typically available at local auto or camper stores?

Dale & Paulette

“God loves you and has a plan for your life!”

[MyPrevost]

Dale,

In my 92, the dash lights / rocker lights are 24v.

[MyPrevost]

On our ’93, the bulbs are 12 volts.

I’ve found that using a piece of shrink tubing (available at electrical supply stores or Radio Shack) works well. Just slide it over the bulb and pull it out. Make sure not to leave the tubing on the bulb while it’s active unless you’re going for a really dim light instead of the usual slightly dim one.

Another option could be clear vinyl tubing used in water systems, as long as it’s not too thick.

Mike

[MyPrevost]

My Marathon manual indicates that everything operates on 24V, except for the Check Engine and Stop Engine lights, which are 12V.

Tom, if you have some extra 24V bulbs, I’d be happy to purchase them from you at Branson. Thanks!

Dale & Paulette

“God Loves you and has a plan for your life!”

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Dale,
Here you go, second pair down.

[MyPrevost]

Dale,

I suspected they were 24V, except for the Check Engine and Stop Engine bulbs. The bulbs will be yours at Branson.

Tom Chilcote
Trans-Specialists RV Batteries
tom@transpspecialists.net

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Truk, you truly are one of the most generous people I know. I’ve had a tough time finding those bulbs in the past, so I ended up buying a large supply, and they aren’t cheap! Keep up the fantastic work. If anyone asks about where I got them, I can look up the invoice.

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Truk, I really appreciate your offer for the 24V bulbs. I’ll definitely find you at Branson. I went to a camper store this evening and got some 12V bulbs, but unfortunately, they didn’t have any 24V. I also stopped by Wal-Mart and saw a variety of 12V options, but still no 24V bulbs.

Ed, thanks for the link! I’m planning to order a pair of the hemostats.
Dale & Paulette

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