Landing Lights at NAPA

In discussing our relatively new Skycraft landing lights (the
cut-into-the-leading-edge-of-the-wings type) here the other day, I noted
that I had just burned out a GE 4509 after around 35 hours. This surprised
me, since, being out in the wing, I expected there to be less
filament-killing vibration, and had hoped for a longer life from the
conventional bulb.

So, after it burned out, I ordered a Q4509 -- the quartz-halogen equivalent,
with a proven much longer life -- from Spruce, which arrived today.

Imagine my surprise when I get to the hangar, turn the lights on (because,
of course, I can't remember which light is burned out) -- and NEITHER wing
landing light works. At first I suspected a blown circuit breaker, but, no,
the OTHER 4509 had also blown, within 30 minutes of its mate.

I'll say this about them: They may be junk bulbs, but at least they are
*consistent* junk bulbs.

:-)

So, not wanting to wait another week for Spruce, I headed over to my FBO,
who (of course) only had 4509s in stock, for some OUTRAGEOUS price. I
declined, figuring if I'm going to pay thirty bucks for a stupid light bulb,
I wanted it to be the long-life quartz one.

Then, I think, hey -- didn't I remember you guys talking about "tractor bulb
equivalents" and the like? So, I pointed the Grape toward my local NAPA
auto parts store, burnt-out bulb in hand, and simply handed it to the guy
behind the counter and asked for a direct replacement.

To my delight, he instantly produced a NAPA equivalent bulb, made by Wagner,
same number (4509) and everything. Best of all, it costs a whole $13.49.

Unfortunately, they don't make a quartz equivalent, so I suspect I'll be
replacing this bulb in another couple of months -- but it's just nice to
have a cheap, locally available alternative. Heck, the box even SAYS
"aircraft light" on it -- so it's probably even legal!

:-)
--
Jay Honeck
Iowa City, IA
Pathfinder N56993
www.AlexisParkInn.com
"Your Aviation Destination"