How to Replace an Electrical Cord in a Lamp
If a lamp in your home is experiencing problems even after you replace a light bulb, there's a good chance the problem is the wiring. It's a pretty simple task to replace the electrical cord, as long as you do it correctly. The cord uses two wires that must be installed in the proper places within the lamp. If you can see the problem is on the outside--like old and cracked insulation--you could cut off the damaged cord and solder a new cord to it. It still may be easier, however, to replace the whole cord. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Make sure the lamp has been turned off long enough that the bulb is cool, and unplug it. Remove the lamp shade and disconnect the bulb.
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2
Remove the lamp's socket shell from its base. The socket shell often has a cover around it that is twisted in place and can be untwisted by hand. Pull the socket shell up out of the base. Since it's connected to the cord, it may help to push the cord further up the lamp from the bottom.
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3
Disconnect the wires from the socket. They are usually screwed in place, requiring you to use a screwdriver or putty knife to unscrew them. Take note which of the two wires is the neutral one--it should be marked on the insulation--and pull the wires out of the lamp.
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Feed the new cord up through the lamp, split the two wires as far apart as you need them and cut an inch or so off the insulation--you only need enough to fit the bare leads into the socket. If the old wires were tied in a knot outside the socket, tie them in a similar knot.
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5
Insert the wires into the socket and screw them down, making sure the correct wire goes to the correct screw. The neutral wire will line up with the thicker prong on the plug and should connect to the silver screw.
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Seat the socket shell back within its base, gently pulling the cord out of the lamp until it is in position. Reconnect the cover for the socket shell, place a fresh light bulb within the socket, replace the lamp shade and plug in the lamp to test it.
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