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 Catalina 25 Specific Forum
 Using mast as ground		  New Topic  Topic Locked
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montl
1st Mate

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Canada
30 Posts
Initially Posted - 05/15/2006 :  10:00:11  Show Profile
Is there any logical reason (ie corrosion etc.) for not using the mast aluminum extrusion as the ground for the mast lights?

Could be very easily done and would not require running a new wire up the mast for a steaming light.
Lloyd Montgomery
Morning Star #1838
Lake Diefenbaker, SK., Canada
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Fantasy II
1st Mate

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USA
80 Posts
Response Posted - 05/15/2006 :  11:00:36  Show Profile
It depends, Lloyd, on whether you are referring to a "ground" or a "DC return". As a DC return (which you need for the lights to work), there is no path back to the source - so no lights!! DC circuits are always "two-wire", meaning a supply (usually+) AND a return back to the source(-).

As a "Ground" (as in lightning protection), the mast would have to be additionally wired to a "Ground Plate" in contact with the water.

Hope this helps!
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montl
1st Mate

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Canada
30 Posts
Response Posted - 05/15/2006 :  11:27:28  Show Profile
DC return is the proper term. It would be easy to attatch a return wire to the extrusion to complete the circuit to wiring harness.
The idea is attatch each of the return side of light wires to the mast, and at base of mast attatch a return wire.
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dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

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Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts
Response Posted - 05/15/2006 :  11:51:35  Show Profile
Using the aluminum mast as part of the electrical circuit may induce galvanic corrosion due to the chain of dis-similar metals being used.
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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.