Downlight bulb not fitting properly

[tim1000]

Would appreciate any help. I have a bathroom downlight bulb where the pins are too thin for the holes in the plastic cube attached to the wire of the transformer. The other type of pins would be too thick. Is this "cube" missing a part? When the bulb blew I first noticed the pins of the bulb were just resting against the connection points using nothing but gravity! When pushing the bulb into the ceiling, it moves the "cube" too much to maintain the connection. This is obviously wrong, but I don't know what I'm missing.

Thanks

 

[rolyberkin]

What size bulb is it and can you post a photo?

 

[Taylortwocities]

Is the socket on a flying lead, or is it fixed.

If on a flying lead then you just need a new socket. eg
Low Voltage Lampholder G4 & GX5.3 + Lead

If its fixed then you may have to replace the whole downlight, as the socket is usually fixed/riveted in place./

 

[tim1000]

Thanks for the replies, I'll add a photo(s) tonight. I'm not familiar with the term 'flying lead' (even after googling still not sure). The photo should confirm this.

Thanks

 

[Pat H]

Many 12V downlighters have a socket that is free to move around on wires that connect back into the light fitting. This allows the bulb to be released and drop lower so the socket can lowered with the bulb for removal etc.
The connections in these sockets can get weak and not grip the pins and can overheat and fail. So a new socket may well be required complete with the wires that are connected to it.

 

[tim1000]

Have attempted to upload photos. Seems to fit Pat H description, though not sure the sockets have got bigger over time.

 

[telectrix]

put a pic on your desktop.then in the forum reply click on "upload a file". then upload the pic from desktop.

 

[tim1000]

thanks telectrix - have uploaded successfully now and editing the post.

 

[dmxtothemax]

Take the lamp with you to a electrical supplier and buy a new base for it
they are easy to fit and will fix your problem properly

 

[telectrix]

thanks telectrix - have uploaded successfully now and editing the post.

upload a pic of the actual bulb.

 

[tim1000]

upload a pic of the actual bulb.

Same as this: http://www.macbuildingproducts.com/images/05BULBDOWN20W.gif

 

[telectrix]

OK you need a MR16 lamp holder. i have loads spare. can post you a couple if you pm me yourname and address.

 

[Flanders]

Not sure but it looks like you have to tighten the slotted screws to hold the lamp in . Problem is if you don't get a good connection to the bulb it will keep blowing

 

[tim1000]

Not sure but it looks like you have to tighten the slotted screws to hold the lamp in . Problem is if you don't get a good connection to the bulb it will keep blowing

I bought a thin flat headed screwdriver and tightened the screws on the bulb pins. This is now resolved. Thanks very much.

Telectrix - that was a generous offer. Much appreciated.

 

[Barry White]

Thankyou for coming back with the solution to the problem