Is it advisable to clean new bulb before first use?
- Thread starter Fusion
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I've read that somewhere, although I think it would become more important on the power bulbs than it would be for say a stock mag bulb.
And the reasoning I believe is that the oil on your hand can bake onto the surface creating a micro thin thermal insulator, that probably doesn't make much of a difference in heat, but since it heats quicker and cools slower than the surrounding glass it apparently can cause a failure.
I would guess that the bulbs and the glass are designed to take a little stress from heat so I don't know how critical this might be.
personally I adjusted the focus on my 1185 bulb with direct contact (to center it in the reflector) and didn't worry about it. I've had that bulb for months with no problems, but it isn't the biggest brightest bulb out there and i'm not over-driving it by much.
But, hey why not do it just to be sure, and then no worries, just wet a paper towel with isopropal and wipe it off.
And the reasoning I believe is that the oil on your hand can bake onto the surface creating a micro thin thermal insulator, that probably doesn't make much of a difference in heat, but since it heats quicker and cools slower than the surrounding glass it apparently can cause a failure.
I would guess that the bulbs and the glass are designed to take a little stress from heat so I don't know how critical this might be.
personally I adjusted the focus on my 1185 bulb with direct contact (to center it in the reflector) and didn't worry about it. I've had that bulb for months with no problems, but it isn't the biggest brightest bulb out there and i'm not over-driving it by much.
But, hey why not do it just to be sure, and then no worries, just wet a paper towel with isopropal and wipe it off.
Last edited:
KLowD9x
Banned
I wouldn't recommend it. I have installed hundreds of those burners in their proper automotive applications and have never had a failure from anything on the outer envelope.
Cleaning it would just risk putting a coating on the envelope that could shorten the life of the burner.
XeRay
Flashlight Enthusiast
I make my living in this arena, if you have any doubts about if anyone has ever touch the glass with bare fingers, you should "wash it".
Use Isopropyl or 90%+ Denatured alcohol. Use a lint free cloth or cotton swabs. I use cotton swabs. The manufacturers, Philips GE and Osram all recommend this to be done if touched.
