Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Headlight on snowblower, craftsman snowblower, craftsman model

Question
Hi,  I bought a craftsman snowblower this year and it had the wiring where I could add a headlight.  I added the light and the bulb burned out rather quickly...used it 4 times.  I bought a new bulb and opened it but didn't realize I bought a 55 watt bulb.  The bulb that was in the light was a 15 watt bulb.  If I install the 55 watt bulb will it hurt/damage the electrical output on the coil/stator on the engine?  I  went back to sears but know one could answer this for me.  I also haven't been able to find a 15 watt bulb...just the 55 watt bulbs.  What would you recommend?
Thanks
George Lee  

Answer
55 watts is a pretty big bulb.

You can use the link below, along with the engine model and spec to determine your alternator.

http://www.cpdonline.com/692509.pdf

Once you know the alternator, you can use this link to calculate the max watts the system can handle:

http://www.servicematters.com/calc/calculate_watts.htm

What is the Craftsman model number?  You will find the model number on a sticker, about the size of a business card, with a format similar to xxx.xxxxxx or xxx-xxxxxxxx.

Send me the engine model and spec number along with the blower model number and I can look up some more specs for your machine.

I looked around online and 35 watt was the biggest watttage kit I found.

Too large a bulb, wattage wise, can also cause additonal heat and actuall melt the headlight housing.

If in doubt, I would find a lower wattage bulb.

Eric