Replacement Lamp Parts

Restoring Antique Lamps is easier with a basic understanding of lamp terminology and replacement lamp parts.

Lamp Terminology

• F: designates a female thread - tapped
• M: designates a male thread - threaded
• Watts: Volts multiplied by Amps
• Amps: Watts divided by Volts
• Volts: Watts divided by Amps

Lamp thread sizes are mostly standardized. It is imperative to know the thread size when replacing any antique lamp parts. List of common lamp threads and there uses provides a quick reference.

Lamp Thread Sizes:

• 8-32 - 5/32" outside diameter, used as holder screws with some glass shades.
  
• 1/4-20 - 9/16" outside diameter
  
• 1/4-27 - 7/32" outside diameter, used on harp posts & most lamp finials.
• 1/8 IP - 3/8" outside diameter, very common thread used on table lamps, socket caps, and some finials. Allows electrical wire to pass through pipe.
• 1/4 IP - 1/2" outside diameter, used on floor lamps, clusters, ceiling fixtures, and  floor lamp bases.
• 3/8 IP - 5/8" outside diameter, used on chandeliers and hanging lamps.

Lamps fall into two basic categories. Determining your lamp type makes choosing the correct replacement lamp parts easier.

• Most table lamps and floor lamps are assembled with threaded lamp pipe and sockets. These lamps use a harp to support a fabric or parchment shade.
• Oil Lamps are assembled with electric or oil lamp burners. Glass shades and chimneys are used on student lamps .

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