Parts for 53C Whelen Strobe convert to flash-LED?

[VernH]

On to the next thing. I have (had) a Whelen HRCFR installed and its dead. I removed it and connected it directly to a battery and the power pack didn't even try. So. I am considering a replacement. I can go back with the same type or, I think, I can use the Whelen 71055. I like the 71055 because it uses LED's and doesn't require 1.5 lbs of power pack. It kinda looks like the old Grimes beacons too. Do any of you use this type? Recommendations?

[brianm]

Hey Vern,

I'm in the same boat regarding the beacon. My Grimes rotating beacon is on its last legs and I'm trying to decide between the 71055 and the HRCFAR. I'm also looking at the 90520 because I think it will go in the existing beacon hole with the A440 adapter, while the 71055 might require some fabrication work. Calling or emailing Whelen to ask about all of that is on my todo list. Of course, if this year's tax return is in my favor I might just remove the beacon altogether and go with a combined nav light / strobe setup.

[VernH]

Hey Vern,

I'm in the same boat regarding the beacon. My Grimes rotating beacon is on its last legs and I'm trying to decide between the 71055 and the HRCFAR. I'm also looking at the 90520 because I think it will go in the existing beacon hole with the A440 adapter, while the 71055 might require some fabrication work. Calling or emailing Whelen to ask about all of that is on my todo list. Of course, if this year's tax return is in my favor I might just remove the beacon altogether and go with a combined nav light / strobe setup.

Hi Brian, I looked at the 90520 as well but the 71055 appeals to me because of the look. I am going to get the recommendations from Whelen too. Too bad S&F isn't until April.

[GAHorn]

When strobes die... it's usually a capacitor in the power-supply or the flash-tube itself. When my unit failed I sent the power supply to Whelen and they repaired it, sent it back with a 1-yr warranty, and it cost me $192, including 2-way FedEx. That was in 2004 and it's still working just fine.

You might ask if they'll repair your existing unit.

[VernH]

This just in from Whelen. The wingtip strobes he is referring to is the model OR6501G/R

Hello Vern -

See attached data sheets for your review. The 90520-55 will simply drop in and attach the same as the HRCFA. The wingtip lights will need 1 new wire run to supply power for the "strobe". These are all LED and do not require an external power supply.

Hope this helps. Thanks for your inquiry.


Kind Regards,
Jeff

[VernH]

When strobes die... it's usually a capacitor in the power-supply or the flash-tube itself. When my unit failed I sent the power supply to Whelen and they repaired it, sent it back with a 1-yr warranty, and it cost me $192, including 2-way FedEx. That was in 2004 and it's still working just fine.

You might ask if they'll repair your existing unit.

I had considered that option. Since the unit has been in use since 1994 I don't know how long it will last after/ if it is repaired. The lens is also in bad shape. Adding the repair to the cost of the lens and I am not far from the cost of a new unit.

[VernH]

I ordered the 90520-55 from Spruce on Wednesday and it's supposed to be here today!