Replace your lamp's outdated power cord with a new, safe one.
You can buy antique or retro lamps at flea markets, garage sales and estate sales for just a few dollars. Wiring standards have changed significantly over the past few decades, however, making that old lamp a potential fire hazard. After years of use or storage, the lamp may not be in the best shape. You can restore and repair an old lamp and make it safe and beautiful for years to come.
Instructions
1. Unplug the lamp and place it on a flat, solid surface. Remove the lampshade, harp and light bulb.
2. Clean the lamp base with a solution of water and mild detergent to remove dust and debris.
3. Apply wood stain to scratches or worn spots on a wooden base, according to the manufacturer's directions.
4. Polish brass parts of the lamp with brass polish according to manufacturer's directions. Allow the lamp base to dry completely.
5. Cut the old cord about 2 inches from the base of the lamp with wire cutters, and strip 1/2 inch of the plastic insulation off the wires. Strip 1/2 inch of the insulation from the end of replacement cord. Twist the exposed wires of each cord together and tape over the joint with electrical tape.
6. Remove the metal shell and cardboard sleeve, which are the pieces that fit over the socket and switch. Wiggle the shell until it pops out of its base, then slide it and the cardboard sleeve off the socket.
7. Pull the socket out of its base until you can grasp the cord under the socket. Gently pull the old cord out of the lamp base while pushing the new cord in. Pull the new cord out of the top of the lamp base until it extends about 6 inches. Remove the tape holding the two cords together and separate the cords.
8. Use a utility knife to split the two sides of the new cord down the middle for about 4 inches. Tie the two sides of the cord into an underwriter's knot.
9. Remove the screws holding the old cord to the socket with a screwdriver. Wrap the exposed end of the neutral wire (the side of the cord with ridges) around the silver screw on the socket, and the exposed end of the hot wire (the smooth side) around the brass screw. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver.
10. Replace the socket in the base, then replace the metal shell and cardboard sleeve. Screw in a new light bulb, replace the harp and attach the replacement lampshade.
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