Help with mystery lights!

[chiefneon]

Howdy!

I asked this question a few days ago and did not get a response so I'm reposting it for help.

We have a new to us Airstream we are making ready for travel, it is a 29' 1988 Excella. My wife recently removed, cleaned and repaired the curtains and discovered in the front area two fluorescent light fixtures neither of which have light bulbs. The one by the front door is approximately 17" and the one on the opposite side of the trailer is approximately 36". Both are located in the window area between the curtains and blinds. We have not been able to locate fluorescent bulbs for these light fixtures. I'm guessing that's why they are missing an have not been replaced. Can someone advised where we could purchase bulbs for these fixtures. I see no reason not to use these fluorescent fixture or Airstream would not have installed them correct?

"Happy Trails"
chiefneon

[tpi]

I saw the question and didn't answer hoping someone with the exact trailer would report whats in there.

But I am knowledgeable on fluorescent lighting.

The 36" is most likely a F30T8
If the other one is 18 inches it is most likely a F15T8

They are not trailer specific lamps and can be purchased anywhere. Or ordered online from outfit like amazon or servicelighting.

[wasagachris]

I have the same valance lighting in my 73 excella. Westinghouse F15T8CW is the bulb number. Replacement fixtures are made by the THINLITE CORPORATION. Both the bulbs and the fixtures can be purchased at any RV outlet.
Bulbs: 12 Volt Fluorescent Tubes/bulbs from PPL
Fixtures: Thin Lite 12 volt Flourescent Lights & Flourescent Tubes - Fluorescent - Thin Lite

[tpi]

One thing I'd like to add..

The CW suffix refers to "cool white" 4100K color temperature with a color rendering index of 60. Newer style lamps are available with color rendering index of mid 80s and warmer color temperature approximating incandescent lighting. Because the unknown status of the fixtures, you may not want to spend the premium for the newer style lamps, the CW lamps are cheaper. But if you're interested in the newer style lamps I can do a bit of research for you.

[chiefneon]

Howdy!

Thanks very much for the help. The light fixtures in our Airstream mentioned due not have covers for the bulbs, should they?

"Happy Trails"
chiefneon

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by chiefneon

Howdy!

Thanks very much for the help. The light fixtures in our Airstream mentioned due not have covers for the bulbs, should they?

"Happy Trails"
chiefneon

Most of them did not, if the fixture was not directly visible. The ones in ours did, but they were aftermarket installations. If you are concerned about the tubes getting broken and the debris getting everywhere, you can get "sleeves" to cover the tubes. That will keep broken glass in one easy to clean up spot.