Tail lights burning out
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Joined: Aug 2009
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From: NC
On a previous build I did, I had to use a mount that was a bit more rigid than the stock setup and I had the same problem. I ended up changing the bulbs to LED units and never had to replace it again after 8 years I sold the bike with the same bulb in it. The standard bulbs would last maybe 1 weekend if lucky. Hope that helps.
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 134
Likes: 1
From: trailer park, IL
same thing was happening to me, a bulb every month or 2. After 2 years of it I replaced the socket for it, a couple bucks, and it hasn't burnt out yet. The old socket wasn't a real tight fit and it seems the bulb had enough wiggle room to vibrate the filament apart. It almost looks like it was a bit melted on the inside, I think I saved it but would have to look for it.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 2,030
Likes: 195
From: Harford Co., Maryland
same thing was happening to me, a bulb every month or 2. After 2 years of it I replaced the socket for it, a couple bucks, and it hasn't burnt out yet. The old socket wasn't a real tight fit and it seems the bulb had enough wiggle room to vibrate the filament apart. It almost looks like it was a bit melted on the inside, I think I saved it but would have to look for it.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 880
Likes: 0
From: Houston, Texas
I'm having the same problem with my 09 SB. The right rear turn sig bulb keeps burning out. I also have the sig relocation kit on for my detachable sissy bar. Good info, hopefully I can get mine straightened out.
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Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 2,706
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From: Near Frankenmuth, MI
Toasting bulbs could be a voltage regulator issue. You'd think if that was the case they all would take a hit.
Vibration / Shock has a lot more to do with the problem I would think.
If moisture gets into the base the corrosion will cause issues like blowing bulbs.
I agree with replacing the bulbs with LED lights.
I recently bought a bike that has extra brake lights, 6 bullets to be exact. When I hit the brake it would pull the battery down below the safe level. Set at a light with brake lights on and it put a strain on the 22 amp recharge system originally in the bike. I changed that out with a 32 amp system and 6 - $8 LEDs and the problem solved. I've been looking at LED turn signals next.
By the way if you use LEDS in the typical H/D bullet holders you have to pry the base up slightly or they short out. The LED housing is almost as big as the inside space and that pushed the center HOT contact touching the housing. A little adjustment with a pair of needle nose pliers and all is good.
Plus the LEDs last almost forever.
Vibration / Shock has a lot more to do with the problem I would think.
If moisture gets into the base the corrosion will cause issues like blowing bulbs.
I agree with replacing the bulbs with LED lights.
I recently bought a bike that has extra brake lights, 6 bullets to be exact. When I hit the brake it would pull the battery down below the safe level. Set at a light with brake lights on and it put a strain on the 22 amp recharge system originally in the bike. I changed that out with a 32 amp system and 6 - $8 LEDs and the problem solved. I've been looking at LED turn signals next.
By the way if you use LEDS in the typical H/D bullet holders you have to pry the base up slightly or they short out. The LED housing is almost as big as the inside space and that pushed the center HOT contact touching the housing. A little adjustment with a pair of needle nose pliers and all is good.
Plus the LEDs last almost forever.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 2,030
Likes: 195
From: Harford Co., Maryland
mine is the right side every time.
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