how to install beacon/flashing bulb

HOW TO REPLACE A BEACON/FLASHING BULB

• CAUTION: If you have a flashing beacon or a strobe beacon, you must let the electrical system discharge for a full 24 hours before attempting to replace the bulb. This system contains high voltage and is very dangerous.

STEP 1

When you have finished viewing this presentation, use the “CAPS” program found on the home page of www.apex-inc.biz. Select the proper beacon/flashing bulb for your aircraft.

STEP 2

• There are several different types of beacon assemblies: Rotating Beacons, Flashing Beacons, Flashing Strobes.

•All have the same replacement steps.

STEP 3

• Using a stable ladder, remove the screw holding the band clamp to the lens. This is usually one screw.

• Carefully remove the clamp. The lens will be loose, don’t drop it!

STEP 4

• Remove the lens from the base plate.

STEP 5

• If the beacon assembly is a flashing/strobe type, the bulb will have a plug attached to the bottom of the bulb or the bulb will have pins.

• Disconnect the plug and install the new bulb assembly. CAUTION: DO NOT TOUCH lamp glass with fingers. Use protective cover to insert lamp. If lamp has been touched, clean carefully with cotton and alcohol.

STEP 6

• If the beacon is a rotating or single bulb system, remove the bulb by pushing down and turning 1/4 turn counter clockwise and lift the bulb out of the socket.

• Install the new bulb by pushing down and turning 1/4 turn clockwise. CAUTION: DO NOT TOUCH lamp glass with fingers. Use protective cover to insert lamp. If lamp has been touched, clean carefully with cotton and alcohol.

STEP 7

• Types of Bulbs: New style bulbs may be pulled out without having to turn. View each type to determine the type you have.

Plug-in Style

1/4 Turn Style

STEP 8

• Install the lens and secure the clamp to the base plate and tighten the screw. DO NOT over tighten.

BEACON/FLASHING BULBREPLACEMENT COMPLETE

• Make appropriate logbook entry of the work performed. The FAA has a sample logbook entry shown in the free video on our home page at www.apex-inc.biz. • This presentation contains information that is consistent with FAR 65.83 “Recent Experience Requirements.”• Please visit www.apex-inc.biz to view a free video that reviews Basic Maintenance for Pilots and Technicians as part of FAR 43 and 91. Click on “Watch the video” located about half way down on the left side of the page.