TheSamba.com :: View topic - How to install Cold Cathode tubes in a Westy ceiling light

Wed Dec 19, 2012 10:51 am

The old florescent bulb in my bus doesn't throw out enough light for my liking. I decided to replace it with dual cathodes. These cathodes are super long lasting and use less energy as well.

You'll need:

-dremel
-sandpaper
-wire cutter/crimper
-assorted electrical connectors
-cold cathode light kit. I used this one: http://www.coolerguys.com/840556012009.html

I wanted to use the full width of my light, so some cutting in the light cover was necessary. You could use smaller cathodes, but that's not what I wanted. I had a spare light assembly so I can always go back to stock if I like.

Disassembly of the light is pretty self explanatory, so I'll just jump into the modification.

Here it is pre cut.

And after trimming the plastic out of the way with the dremel and sanding it a bit. Be sure to leave enough plastic on the sides so that you can still reinstall the mounting plate.

Here is the kit I used. It looks well made and is only about 7 bucks.

Once you remove the old transistor circuitry the new inverter from this kit fits perfectly in place. I used the velcro tape provided to mount this as well as the tubes, and zip ties to keep the wiring secure.

The tubes are mounted to the original mounting plate (sorry, no picture).

Once you have the assembly back together you can wire it up. Just run the red wire from the inverter to the white wire coming off the non toggle side of your stock switch. Then hook the red wire in your Westy to the toggle side of the switch. Last hook up the black inverter wire to your stock ground. I used male spade connectors so that I can remove the light later if needed plus that way you are able to avoid chopping your stock wiring. Also, be sure to protect the red wire connection if you use spade connectors. That is a constant hot that is now loose, so you need to avoid the possibility of a short.

The stock switch leaves something to be desired and I might do something about that in the future. For now I’m happy with it!

And, here are some before and after.

And a big improvement.

Wed Dec 19, 2012 11:04 am

i did this same modification. it made a huge difference.

Wed Dec 19, 2012 3:41 pm

Cool!
The pictures make it look a little harsh, but in reality it doesn't blind you and really cast some good light around.

Wed Dec 19, 2012 6:28 pm

on my to do list...been looking for a upgrade...was looking for an LED light, but this looks promising :D

Sat Oct 05, 2013 12:03 am

looking into the small lighting upgrades tonight....HIDS for the headlights and foglights (el cheepo 40 dollar kits) LED lights for the engine bay and whereever else in the camping area etc, and some cold cathodes. getting em ordered up so they are on their way! :D

Mon Oct 07, 2013 9:25 am

Stuartzickefoose wrote: looking into the small lighting upgrades tonight....HIDS for the headlights and foglights (el cheepo 40 dollar kits) LED lights for the engine bay and whereever else in the camping area etc, and some cold cathodes. getting em ordered up so they are on their way! :D

Sweet! I'm still loving mine!

Mon Oct 07, 2013 11:30 am

I used two 10" LED strips from SuperBrightLEDs and a for-parts stock fluorescent light lens/base with great results.