1968 Kenmore 800 washer ballast

[classiccaprice]

Does anyone know the specs on the light ballast for my 68 kenmore or perhaps a link? It has started flashing and I had the bulb and starter capsule tested at the local mom and pop hardware store. Both passed with flying colors. Thanks fellas!

 

[eronie]

ballast

Ballast is good or lamp wont lite at all. Replace starter can and bulb you should be good to go . Tested ok at store because of diferent ballast.

 

[kenmore71]

Any magnetic ballast for a 15-20 watt preheat fluorescent lamp will work.

Here is a link for one from Grainger for $8.52.  You might be able to find something cheaper locally.

The important things to mention is that you need a magnetic ballast (not electronic) for a preheat (not rapid or instant start) 20 watt lamp.  Most of these ballasts will work with 14, 15, 18 & 20 watt lamps.

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/PHILIPS-ADVANCE-Ballast-2X463?Pid=search

 

[combo52]

Flashing KM 800 Florescent Light

Tony is likely 100% correct, the ballast either works or does not, you need to replace BOTH the bulb and the starter.

 

[classiccaprice]

Could I get a more detailed explanation?

Why would the starter capsule and bulb both work correctly in the store, but not in the machine with what you, John and Tony, are saying is a perfectly working ballast? I appreciate the info.

I first noticed it flash off briefly mid wash and turn back on. During the next load the light lid on the sides, and the middle kept flashing on, but it wouldn't stay on. That's when I went to the store and got a new starter capsule. When the same symptoms occurred I went back and they tested the new capsule to make sure it wasn't faulty. They said to bring back the bulb and they would test it. I did and it worked like it was supposed to on the test machine.

Also, Thanks Mark for the link.

 

[eronie]

ballast

like i said before replace both the starter can and the bulb . you should be good for another ten years.

 

[goatfarmer]

Are the sockets in good shape, making contact?

 

[classiccaprice]

Seems to be in good shape with good contact...  I'll spray a little contact cleaner on it later, just in case.  Thanks Kenny.

 

[classiccaprice]

How important is wattage on this light?  In there currently is a Westinghouse 26" T8 bulb that is 16W, but I can only find 18W and 19W locally.  Does it HAVE to be 16W?  Just wondering.  Thanks 

 

[kenmore71]

It does not.  Lamps that were from 14 to 20 watts always used the same magnetic ballast and starter.  That included T12 and T8 lamps from 15" to 24".

 

Incidentally, I know of no 26" fluorescent lamp ever produced.  Perhaps you are counting the length of the pins and rounding up?

 

Back "In the day" they were as follows:

 

14 watt = 15"

15 watt = 20"

20 watt = 24"

 

[classiccaprice]

Good to know.

It is indeed 26 in" I checked.  

 

Here are a couple of examples for sale:  http://www.buylightfixtures.com/ge-f26t8-cw-4-appliance-light-bulbs.aspx

http://1000bulbs.com/product/6422/F-18T8CW26.html

 

 

[akronman]

Hey Will

My 66 Lady K uses those same bulbs. I had to buy a 3-pack and have 2 left. Let me know if you need one--

Mark

 

[classiccaprice]

Thanks Mark!  I'll try one of the ones I found locally, but if it doesn't work I'll let you know!