Electrics Problem

[cmyers_uk]

None of my lights bow or stern work. I have checked the fuses, bulbs look OK and brought a multimeter. So armed and dangerous I need a bit of advise in the order of things to check. What things should I check and in what order?<br /><br />Regards<br /><br />Chris

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: Electrics Problem

Chris...I would start at the switch, see if you have power in and out when it's turned on. If they haven't worked for a while it's possible the bulbs could have corrosion and the contacts need a light sanding.

 

[lenny2113]

Re: Electrics Problem

Chris,<br /><br />First, you have to check if you're getting 12v to your navigation lights socket. If you do, replace bulbs. Second, check if you are getting power at your fuse box. If you have no power at your fuse box, then you know you have a problem with a wire running from battery or battery switch to your fuse box panel. Check if you have ground going to lights as well. You could use multimeter or even the symplest test light. <br /><br />Good luck, <br />Lenny

 

[Trent]

Re: Electrics Problem

Ground wires are the normal problem...along with corrosion. Clean and check grounds.

 

[cmyers_uk]

Re: Electrics Problem

Thanks guys, I seem to have power at the switch and the switch appears to turn it off on as expected. I dont seem to have any power getting to either the front light terminals or the rear light terminals. Where should I look for the grounds is that likely to be by the fuse box?

 

[JB]

Re: Electrics Problem

Moving to Boat Electrics.

 

[Bayrider]

Re: Electrics Problem

Chris.Do the bow and stern lights work on seperate switchs.If so they most likely have a common ground.On my boat the ground terminal is next to the fuse box under the dash.