Sears Craftsman 80W. Bug Zapper- 833.1404 (Circa 1977)

[@kathleenbabcock9009]

This was one we had for 20 years, only one that worked for us and all around us. It broke a long time ago and we threw it out. Now that we are going into the backyard again, we tried 3 other one and none of them work like this one. Have no idea why, but this did not use attractants or anything but itself and it was amazing.

[@jimsamuels833]

Just an FYI. The transformer that you pointed to and described as the ballast for the two fluorescent tubes is in fact the high voltage transformer for the grid. The smaller winding is the Primary where the 120V is connected (after the interlock is once again connected). The larger winding is the Secondary winding consisting of thousands of turns of fine wire which produces the 4500 - 5000 Vac that is between the two grids. The ballast for the two fluorescent tubes is the larger, rectangular black module on the other side of the plate. You can confirm that by tracing the wiring from the starters through the ballast and on to the tubes.

[@andycflbulb]

I like how stuff like the starters are replaceable! Makes it so much more user-friendly and even the average Joe homeowner can change a starter...

[@allhonesty848]

Coming off of the transformer are these 2 orange/red puck things (to the left of the transformer in the last shot with the top off). What are they? I need to replace one on my zapper cause it...well, it looks like it exploded but I can't figure out what part I need to order.

[@jimsamuels833]

Sears parts direct references them as a capacitor but without any supporting documentation so not much help though they offer a part number that also leads to a dead end.

[@allhonesty848]

@@jimsamuels833 thanks for the response. I thought that's what they were based on wiring diagrams for similar models, but wasn't 100% sure. I'll probably end up guessing and buying the wrong part a few times...maybe blow up a weaker cap by mistake. 😅

[@VICNASTY1989]

You can see how much quality they put into the Flowtron models...its why they are my favorite...as a matter of fact you can STILL buy replacement parts for this model on Sears parts direct....and they have diagrams and things to!

[@Nubiansage1]

All metal construction , should last a lifetime, just change the guts.👍

[@andycflbulb]

Nice looking one you got there! Looks way bigger than the currently made ones...

[@VICNASTY1989]

Yes, Sears Parts Direct. Enter the model number of your zapper, and a itemized list and diagram will pop up. I bought a new hanging ring for this particular zapper a few weeks ago on there, and they also carry the electrical components you are looking for. Hope that helps -Thanks for watching!

[@VICNASTY1989]

And yes this thing is a beast...its over 2 feet tall and has 2 18" (I think) 40 fluorescent UV tubes....top mounted starters, I have always wanted one of these.....it weighs a ton to

[@RRMIAMI]

I need one of these

[@nathankeller9251]

I have a Sears 833.14314. One bulb working, one not like yours. Do you know where I can get replacement starters and bulbs?

[@andycflbulb]

Yeah, the 1970s were a great time for florescent lighting!

[@jessiekepner6859]

can you tell how its wired, between the power cord, the safety, ballast, starter, and zapper?

[@tombouie]

Thks

[@Blue2004Z71]

Glad I found you. Are you willing to sell any zappers? Let me know. I'm in Colorado. Love your collection.

[@waynesmith3473]

hello I really liked all your comments on the vintage sears bug wacker as I have had one for a long time hidden away in my outdoor shed and all model # ets are gone. I found the repair page for all models and found one that used the parts that look the same also it contained 2 Norelco f15 t8 bulbs, my concern is what is the # of the dual tansformer to use any and all help on this item would be super. please e mail me asap please thank you Wayne

[@VICNASTY1989]

Your welcome, sounds like that would work to!

[@tvrift]

Not sure where they got the "80w" from. I picked up a brand new 833.1404 on ebay a few months ago and it came with two F25T8 BL bulbs from GE.

[@johnb5519]

The 80 watts is the zapping power.

[@jimmysapien9961]

I have an old Sears one. Exactly like this one Just took it out of the shed . Been over 18 yrs I think since I’ve used it . Cleaned it up snd Omggg working beautiful

[@jerrodwinship4212]

where did you buy the replacement parts?

[@VICNASTY1989]

Holy Crap, are you back on youtube again :D Are you on IM right now...I would love to chat

[@jorgecarmona2447]

Good info👍 Ryan, Do you have an email? I wanted to see if can help me with a SEARS BUG WACKER #883.14083?

[@korgothkillings2032]

I have a bigger one

[@RetroVintageItems27]

First!!!