delayed power to lights

[norman2013]

Hey guys, I have a 16 foot jon boat that I just recently put new nab and stern lights on. I used 16 gage wire and a single switch. For some reason when i flip the switch the lights don't just pop on i have to sit there for about 15 seconds before they come on? Any suggestions? I used a pretty cheap switch.

 

[firstcatch]

Re: delayed power to lights

That seems strange. First check the switch. If that is not the problem then the wiring could be. How old is the wire? Did you use Marine grade (Ancor is best) wire. Are the lights LED or halogen?

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: delayed power to lights

You have a bad connection some place.

 

[gm280]

Re: delayed power to lights

Not being there and making any test for myself, it sounds like you have some type of resistive connection (probably corrosion) in line that once current is provided, it starts to heat up and the resistance reduces allowing more current to light your lights. You seriously need to trace down every wire going to your lights and fix that before something serious happens (a possible fire hazard). And I'd check all the other wires and connection to everything else as well.

 

[norman2013]

Re: delayed power to lights

It is a brand new jon boat with brand new lights, wire, and switch. The lights are halogen lights not LED. I thought it was strange as well!

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: delayed power to lights

Start eliminating. Jump around the switch for starters.

 

[gm280]

Re: delayed power to lights

Halogen lights will take a little longer to light being how they use a filament type element and special gas inside. However, 15 seconds is a LONG time. If it is truly that long, turn them on and feel the wires at the switch, fuse and light itself to see if they are getting warm. It could be you are using too small wire for the current draw... Again just my 1 1/2 cents worth...

 

[midcarolina]

Re: delayed power to lights

the problem is prolly a cheap over seas switch.........

 

[norman2013]

Re: delayed power to lights

thanks for your guyses help! I will probably start with replacing the switch and move from there