Alice Lloyd
Replacing boat navigation lights is a straightforward task that can be completed in a few simple steps. Navigation lights are essential for visibility and safety when boating during dark hours or in conditions of reduced visibility. The US Coast Guard mandates the use of navigation lights to prevent collisions and ensure that nearby ships can see each other. When a bulb burns out, it is important to replace it immediately or carry spare bulbs for emergencies. This guide will provide a step-by-step process for replacing boat navigation lights, covering different types of bulbs and offering troubleshooting tips for common issues.
What You'll Learn
Removing the old bulb
To remove the old bulb, you will first need to remove the light fixture's outer casing. This may involve unscrewing a top screw and lifting off a chrome or plastic cover. Be careful not to force anything, as you don't want to break the light fixture.
In some cases, there may be another small screw underneath the cover that holds the plastic assembly in place, so check carefully for this before proceeding. Once you have removed any screws, you should be able to gently pry off the plastic casing with a flat-head screwdriver.
If your light is an LED, the wire leads will likely be very small in diameter/larger gauge. If it is not an LED, there may be some silicone under the plastic, so take a sharp blade and gently ply off the plastic to reveal the bulb. The bulb will likely be tubular with metal pointed ends.
If your light is a sealed LED, only the rubber gasket or separately screwed-down black plastic base at the bottom may have sealant between it and the hull to seal the wire hole. The red plastic lens part may be settled into the rubber gasket and require some wiggling or tapping to free it for further inspection and bulb/socket access.
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Choosing the right replacement bulb
The right replacement bulb for your boat navigation lights will depend on the type of fitting in your boat. Common types include:
- Double and single contact bayonets
- G4
- Bi-pin and festoon base types
- BA15S/BA15D Bayonets (1141/1142/1156)
- BAY15D Indexed Bayonet (1157)
- BA9S Miniature Bayonet
- Festoon 31mm LED
If you are unsure, you can contact experts by phone or send them a picture of your current bulb to get advice on the right replacement.
LED bulbs are a popular choice as they are brighter, use 85% less energy, and are more likely to be operational than incandescent bulbs. They are also not polarity sensitive and have very low EMI. They are available in a wide variety of base types and outputs, so you can upgrade to LEDs without changing your existing fixtures.
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Refitting a new bulb
Once you have the correct bulb, you can begin the process of refitting. First, remove the old bulb. This may involve removing a screw at the top of the light fixture and gently prying off the plastic cover to access the bulb. Be careful not to break the plastic, as there may be some silicone underneath. The bulb will likely be tubular with metal pointed ends.
After removing the old bulb, you can insert the new one. Ensure that you use bulb grease on the new bulb's contacts before installing it. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure a good connection.
Finally, reassemble the light fixture, making sure that all screws are tight and secure. Test the new bulb to ensure it is functioning properly.
It is important to replace faulty bulbs immediately to maintain safe navigation. Always bring spare bulbs on your boat trips in case of emergencies.
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Using LED bulbs
Upgrading your boat's navigation lights to LED bulbs is a straightforward process that brings many benefits. LED lights are brighter, use 85% less energy, and are more reliable than incandescent bulbs. They also don't suffer from lumen depreciation, staying at full brightness throughout their lifespan.
When it comes to the process of replacing your boat's navigation light bulbs with LED bulbs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to ensure you select the correct LED bulb for your specific fixture. This may not always be straightforward, so don't hesitate to contact experts for advice. You can do this by phone or by sending a picture of your current bulb.
The good news is that retrofitting the bulbs is generally a simple process. You can easily replace your incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs without changing the entire light fixture. This gives you the advantage of LEDs without the cost and hassle of a complete fixture replacement.
When purchasing LED bulbs, look for those that are compatible with the voltage range of your boat's electrical system. LED bulbs are available in a variety of base types, such as bayonet and wedge, and outputs to fit most applications. You can also choose from different colours, such as cool white and red and green combinations, depending on your specific needs.
Finally, when it comes to compliance with Coast Guard regulations, it is recommended to use a light meter to check the output of your new LED bulbs. Compare the output with your previous bulbs, and as long as the LED bulbs meet or exceed the original output, you should be good to go.
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Finding spare parts
When it comes to finding spare parts for boat navigation lights, there are several online retailers that offer a range of products. Here are some options and factors to consider:
Online Retailers
Several online stores specialise in marine equipment and offer a wide range of spare parts for boat navigation lights. Examples of such retailers include SVB, MarineBeam, and Perko Inc. These websites often provide detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and ratings, making it easier to find the right spare parts for your needs.
Specific Parts
The type of spare parts you need will depend on the specific model and brand of your boat navigation lights. Some common parts include bulbs, lenses, mounting bases, brackets, and sockets. Make sure to identify the correct part number or model number of your navigation lights before searching for spare parts.
Compatibility and Specifications
It is crucial to ensure that the spare parts you purchase are compatible with your existing navigation lights. Pay attention to factors such as voltage requirements, base type, and size specifications. For example, LED bulbs have a wide operating voltage range and are not polarity-sensitive, making them a versatile option.
Customer Support
When choosing an online retailer, consider their level of customer support. Some websites offer expert advice and assistance in selecting the right spare parts. They may provide contact information or even encourage you to send a picture of your current setup to ensure you purchase the correct parts.
Reviews and Ratings
Customer reviews and ratings can be invaluable in making an informed decision. Look for retailers that display genuine customer feedback, as this can provide insights into the quality, performance, and reliability of the spare parts. Positive reviews can give you confidence in your purchase, while negative reviews can help you identify potential issues or incompatible parts.
In summary, finding spare parts for boat navigation lights involves identifying the specific parts needed, ensuring compatibility, and sourcing them from reputable online retailers. By considering customer support, reviews, and product specifications, you can make informed choices and keep your boat navigation lights in good working order.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use LED, halogen, or incandescent bulbs for boat navigation lights. LED lights are brighter, use less energy, and are more likely to be operational than incandescent bulbs. They also don't suffer from lumen depreciation.
Depending on the fixture, you may need to remove a screw at the top or gently pry off the plastic cover to access the bulb. Be careful not to break the plastic.
You can find replacement bulbs for boat navigation lights at marine supply stores, such as West Marine, Overton's, or online retailers like Amazon.
