Aircraft Beacon Question

[348]

I have the opportunity to pick up this light. It is described as a functioning aircraft beacon. One photo looks like it may be missing a bulb as I see an empty socket. Anyone recognize this light and what it may be worth in working condition. Thanks for any help.

 

[cmb56]

It look like a Grimes G-8190 Hi-Flash.
Maybe without the housing or for flush mounting.
I believe that it uses two Grimes A-7079B-12, 14V, 40W bulbs.

Michael

 

[dmathieu]

This is a Grimes aircraft beacon made to fit a hole in the body of a plane. Beware of voltage, may or may not be 12 Volt. As cmb56 says, there was an automotive version called the Hi-Flash. This is not it. Yes, there is a bulb missing.

 

[dmathieu]

Here is a Hi-Flash version.

 

[Nolines]

Where in the World would this attach to a Plane... undercarrige or tail... looks more industrial then the hi flash... but since I dont know..

 

[dmathieu]

Research.

 

[Skulldigger]

https://www.hangarswap.com/Shop/DisplayProduct?productID=8765

Not that it has sold.

 

[AuroraBorealis]

Where in the World would this attach to a Plane... undercarrige or tail... looks more industrial then the hi flash... but since I dont know..

These older rotating beacons would fit flush on the top and or bottom of the fuselage, and often in a receptacle on top of the vertical stabilizer. Typically 24V/28V. The development of strobes, and now LED's, superseded these rotating/oscillating beacons, just like on vehicles.

Many older generation general aircraft have updated their lighting to newer and more reliable technology, but every now and then you see one of these REAL beacons.

 

[348]

Since the light appears to be missing a bulb, does anyone know if replacement bulbs are readily available or are they hard to find?

 

[dmathieu]

On ebay frequently

 

[Phillyrube]

Looks like Whelen sells them. Since it says aircraft, price is tripled.

https://www.aircraftspruce.eu/whelen-w129014-reflector-lamp.htm

 

[348]

Thanks everyone for the info. I spoke with the seller. He says its a 12 volt system he took out of an airplane 15 years ago. He is going to try to find a bulb for the one that is missing and get back to me. We'll see what happens.