I have looked for history to help myself but do not find enough information in the forum. Perhaps it is there but I cannot find it. Can someone help me with additional information please to resolve my issue.
For some hidden reason, I have a short in my wiring for the navigation running lights. Of course one switch controls the red/green/white running lights. When I turn it on the amperage climbs quickly and then the breaker trips. I had a lightning strike 8 years ago but the boat was repaired. All was well until last season with this issue. I hope to rewire the lights but have no idea how the wiring is run or concealed between the fore and aft pulpits.
Waiting for help................larry
Thank you
1986 Catalina 36
MK-1
Hull 585
I guess it is easy for me to say that it is easily isolated since this is my line of work.
I would remove all 3 light bulbs then turn on the running light switch. The fixture itself may have a short.
There must be two wires connected to the running light switch. One running to the front and one running to the back. Disconnect one wire then the other to isolate which wire is in trouble. Then run a a new wire.
To avoid keep having to reset the circuit breaker - temporarily place a 12 V light bulb of a higher wattage than the running lights in series with these two wires. If there is a short the bulb will be bright. When you isolate the short the bulb will dim and the running light will turn on.
Let us know how ti goes.
Sail La Vie 1999 Catalina 36 MKII, M35B-17031, Coyote Point, San Mateo, CA
About Sail La Vie
Okay good stuff. Unfortunately the boat is 3 hours away. I may not get back to it for 3 weeks. I will post my findings as soon as possibe.
Thank you