In response to the question..."We have lots of lights inside our TT and
all of the bulbs are BRIGHT! There are several lights (under cabinets over the
couch and the bed) that we'd like to be dimmer. Have any of you had any success
finding lower wattage bulbs (to replace 1141's I think)?"
Tom Boles replied...
Great topic-I went through the drill myself!
I felt the same way and have found a great bulb to use for all the dual
fixtures. I use the 1155 bulb found in GOOD auto parts stores. Keep
looking-it's not real common, but it works great. Draws about .56 A @ 13 V.
Supposed to last 2000 hours! I tried the other more common bulbs, but I think
this is the best for my purpose.
I put it in the "first on" side of all the dual fixtures in the
trailer. This way, you have plenty of light to see what you need to without
being blinded when you first turn on the fixture, and more light is available
by simply pushing the switch over to "both on". Makes a world of
difference in the evening, especially in the slide out fixtures and the bed
room. Uses less power (good for dry camping) and generates less heat as well.
If your bulbs are halogen, there are many options. 15 and 10 watt bulbs are
available at many hardware stores. I've seen 5 watt bulbs at marine stores
(like West Marine) for yacht fixtures. Since the influx of Euro-designed
halogen interior fixtures for houses, many lighting shops will carry these
bulbs, perhaps lower than 5 watts.
Do some telephone work and see what you find. Just remember to handle the bulbs
with a paper towel or gloves to keep finger oils and acids off the glass!
Thanks for the permission to use your comments, Tom!
Footnote: Using Tom's suggestions, I tracked down
3.8 watt Ancor Marine Grade wedge base bulbs (the kind used in my fixtures) at
a Boater's World store. They were $1.29 for two. I installed them on the
"first side" of my dual fixtures and they have lived up to all
expectations. Each bulb draws 0.27 Amps. The Ancor part number is 194. Camping
World also sells 194 bulbs, but their packaging does not include watt and amp
data.