Stenlight cable replacement in early lamps

[royfellows]

I have just attempted this and failed.The early cable type is 2 core PVC covered similar to appliances and computer keyboards etc and is soldered directly to the PCB. They then passed the cable through the back and filled it in with what looks like Plastic Metal. I cleaned out the filler by basically a chiseling action but had to remove the PCB. These are fixed by thermal tape but I was told by Simon Lowe that they can be removed by getting the lamp hot, but it usually trashes them. It the way to fit a new one. I got it out in one piece OK and removed the bits of old cable and fitted a new one, but its as dead as King Tut. The later cables just unplug once the back is removed, but early lamps are as above. Its a bad show as this type of cable will not last. I cannot see anything damaged but there we are.

 

[ChrisB]

Apologies if you've covered this, but are you sure you haven't accidentally swapped the polarity round on the new cable?

 

[royfellows]

Oh Chris, just exactly what do you think I am!
The armoured cable I use has no polarity markings so I identify them with red nail varnish of all things. Dried quickly and as good an anything
The oproblem is that to push out the PCB you have to use a screwdriver or similar throught the cable hole at the back, and as some force is required this will obviously bend the PCB until it breaks free.
I will probably have a mess from time to time in case is a failed solder joint, but the bending is obviously to blame. Its a bad design.

 

[ChrisB]

Oh Chris, just exactly what do you think I am!

I must remember not to post before waking up.

 

[royfellows]

No worries old friend.
I have quite a box of stuff off Simon including new lamp bodies, basically everything I need to make up some new lamps, bar lamp cables and PCBs. I am making new cables out of the indestructable Chanflex, if only I could get my hands on some PCBs. US rip off postage is unaceptable to me, so I may as well wish for winning the Prem Bonds.LOL