My Hitachi 50 inch model 50v500a needs a light engine... this is the 2nd time I need a new one... is this a problem with this model that happens a lot... will Hitachi send me a new light engine on their dime... ??

not the lamp. hitachi knowingly had a defect with the fan not allowing enough air to cool the lamp which has burned the red color lense resulting in the red on your screen. enjoy your new brick thanks to hitachi!

Light engine issue

Ebay is the best place where I find parts at a good price:

http://shop.ebay.com/?_from=R40&_trksid=p4712.m38.l1313&_nkw=ballast+hitachi+50V500A&_sacat=See-All-Categories

Sounds like a light engine issue. Replace it but it might be costly.

The problem is your light engine is failing. The part number for this is UX22201DR and is available for purchase with the following link. It runs $334 dollars and really is a part that needs to be replaced by a technician due to the complexity in tear down to remove it. Please take a few moments to rate my answer. Thanks...

http://www.partstore.com/Part/Hitachi+Ltd/Hitachi/UX22201DR/New.aspx

You need a new light engine.

Pls check this picture..
If you have same issue I would recommend pls change light engine.
Good Luck
Dals123

I have a 60 inch lcd with the red cloud, bought the tv in 04 called hitachi about it and there sending my tv repair man the light engine no cost. Everyone just needs to call them again. thanks Jim

"Yes" Or the lamp door on the set is open!, "Check lamp" most of the time the lamp will pop & fail... you will see this by looking at lamp

You have a defective light engine and you do not have to be under warranty for Hitachi to replace this part. We just went through this and here's what you need to do. Call Hitachi's customer relations department at 800-654-7013 and tell them that you have a defective light engine. They will act like they've never heard of this problem but they have. They will give you the names of some certified dealers in your area to call. Once a tech comes out and confirms that it's the light engine, call Hitachi back and they will send a brand new light engine to the dealer and Hitachi will cover the cost of the part (cost $1500).

Here is the deal, if you're under warranty, Hitachi will cover the part and the install. If you're not under warranty, all you pay is the install. Our install cost $400. Others on this site have paid $200. Do not let anyone tell you that you have to pay for the light engine part...you do not. Hitachi has not recalled this part but they are replacing it for free. Also, deal only with Hitachi customer realations number that I listed. Good Luck!