Marquee Blows Fuses. 110 volts? replacement options?

[Rec Room supply]

hi, i have an arcade marquee that blows a fuse when i replace the flourescent bulb.  i see a coil of sorts in the light fixture. is this possibly a step down convertor or something and its not 110 volts? there is inline to the bulb a tiny light bulb in the wiring that lights so im assuming that shows i have power? does that have to remain in the wiring or can it be cut out? but the actual light never lights, just blows a breaker. can i fix this or possibly just cut this one out and replace it with a new flourescent fixture from my local store?........Scott

[sarge]

The coil thing you are referring to is a ballast and is probably what is bad and causing your fuse to blow.  The light bulb looking thing is a starter and is used to provide the extra boost to initially light the bulb.  Personally I would just replace the entire fixture since it is not working. 

[Rec Room supply]

thanx for the info, do i KEEP the starter in the circuit or cut out the whole thing and direct wire the new fixture?........Scot

[SirPeale]

The starter is 100% necessary, or your bulb will never light.

Just get a replacement @ Wal-Mart for $8.00.

[Blanka]

What is the fuse? How much current does the machine use? The starter gives a boost to the current flow after starting up. The fuse must have enough reserves. Try keeping the marquee outside the fused part of the cab, and give it 110 directly.