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more bow light running questions

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hoochiemama
Deckhand

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1 Posts

Initially Posted - 10/09/2006 : 09:53:35

Hi all, I have just purchased a 1981 Catalina 25. Like previous poster, I am troubleshooting bowlights. I am not getting juice at the wires connected to the sockets.

I tried to follow the wiring into the cabin, but I'm stumped as to where the wires go betweeen bow and patch panel.

What would be my next step?

the only accessory working of the main panel are the cabin lights. Mast and spreader lights are not working, but I haven't been up the mast to test power yet.

Edited by - on

Frank Hopper
Past Commodore

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Pitcairn Island
6776 Posts

Response Posted - 10/09/2006 : 10:15:44

As a stop gap before your rewire your boat; which you probably will do. You should climb into the sail locker and clean and reterminate everything you see. The existing wire is not accessable in its runs around the boat, when you rewire you will not be able to pull new wire with the old wire, you will need new runs. The ground buss in the lower right area is a likely problem.

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Leon Sisson
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1893 Posts

Response Posted - 10/09/2006 : 11:59:44

The original wiring (and a lot of wiring installed by previous owners) is one of the least reliable systems on a C25. I agree with Frank - the place to start troubleshooting is the back of your 12V distribution panel. Although you will want to have a multi-meter handy, one of the best tools for troubleshooting the sort of problem you're having is a light bulb with two test leads attached with alligator clips on them. With this, you can clip one bulb lead to either power or ground, and quickly test for bad switches and connectors. Also, a bulb is a lot easier to 'read' in a dimly lighted confined space than a meter.

-- Leon Sisson

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John P
Captain

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USA
324 Posts

Response Posted - 10/10/2006 : 10:00:42

I totally agree with this approach, (as I have to do this as well)

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djn
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1561 Posts

Response Posted - 10/10/2006 : 10:24:13

You can buy one at your local auto parts store as a fuse testion. As far as were the wires go between the panel and bow.....think of the internet.....it is just a mystery. Cheers.

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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.