Stubborn Light Fixture

[DIYer101]

I don't know who to ask except experienced electricians...

I've got a light fixture that I cannot remove (I just bought the house and want to change the bulb). I think I found the same model at Home Depot and read the instructions, but I can't get it off.

A photo is attached. I've unscrewed the brass nuts on either side, but still can't get the thing to come apart. I've tried pulling harder than I should and twisting, but I'm happy to try more.

I'm sure it's much simpler than I imagine, but I also wonder if it got glued shut or something. I'm fine with destroying the fixture and putting in a new one, I just don't know where to drill holes or whatever (after shutting off the breaker, of course...) to get the thing apart.

Thank you for any suggestions you have!

 

[ActionDave]

Try lifting and turning the bottom piece of glass until it will slide out without breaking and cutting you....take out the bulb and any screws you see inside there.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[DIYer101]

Dave, I just tried your idea but the glass is secured and won't go up/in. Thank you though - that was a great idea!

I might end up just breaking that piece of glass if necessary so I can see inside...

 

[Reach4]

I am not familiar with the fixture, but after removing the nuts, I would pry from a corner. I would use perhaps a putty knife under my pry tool to save the painted surface.

My suspicion is that the painter got paint into the crack which is serving as glue. I am expecting that once you get it started, the cover will peel off.

An alternative would be to drive a narrower putty knife horizontally into the crack all around to break the paint.

 

[DIYer101]

I am not familiar with the fixture, but after removing the nuts, I would pry from a corner. I would use perhaps a putty knife under my pry tool to save the painted surface.

My suspicion is that the painter got paint into the crack which is serving as glue. I am expecting that once you get it started, the cover will peel off.

An alternative would be to drive a narrower putty knife horizontally into the crack all around to break the paint.

YESSSSSSS! Had to scrape around and pry a little but it came free, and there's paint all over where it shouldn't be.

Thank you - really appreciate it.