1964 12 volt interior sconce lights shut off intermittently

[PA BAMBI II]

I think the 12 volt interior sconce lights in the 1964 Bambi II did the same last camping season...they shut off and then come back on at will. Jiggling the lights' turn-knob switch will also correct the problem.

Once back on, either autonomously or by jiggling the switch, they will stay on for a few minutes and then the same thing happens again. The inventor sounds differently when the bulb goes out.

The lights are quite warm/hot when they do this. I am wondering if I have a problem in the switch, it if there is some kind of safety shut off feature in the switch...doubtful for 1964 technology...or if it is a bulb heat problem and should I try changing to LEDs??

Any help appreciated.

[TG Twinkie]

I will assume these are 12 volt DC lights and it is the converter changing sound.
It sounds to me like you have a bad connection either on the common/ground side or the +12 volt side. The skin provides the common/ground so check for a lose connection. It could be as simple as the mounting screw is lose.

[cwf]

Here ya go..

[PA BAMBI II]

Originally Posted by cwf

Here ya go..

So you're saying I have a bad center terminal? Would that explain my light's symptoms?

[ijustlee]

Sounds like some connection is getting hot and changing shape cutting off electricity flow. Try to jiggle things one at a time to find offender. Could be bulb to base or center contact, switch contacts, wire connection or even fuse contact in converter. Close observation is necessary.