Lights!
rasbury
Member Posts: 8,434 ✭✭✭✭✭
I have several lights on my 270 newly purchased that are out. I have a dash with a lot of switches that the description has "worn" off what they do so between the lights that are out and switches I am not sure what they do, I'm at a bit of a loss....can someone else with a 270 go down the row of switches? I'm a bit puzzled that there are two or more switches for lights.....what is each one supposed to do? I know some of the front lights are out and I am not sure how to pop off the covers on the ones at the bow......do they snap off? I'm afraid to brake them. I know you have certain lights on while under power and other lighting that has to be on at anchor and I'm sure the light switches take care of that but if someone can confirm what each switch does what and what lights are supposed to be on I can figure out what lights are ok and which need to be replaced/serviced
Comments
MT is right. Get rid of those old school amp hog dome light bulbs and swap in some LEDs
The red/green bow lights might be due for replacement rather than just bulbs. It's a demanding but important spot up on the nose of the boat and they're nearly 10y/o. Mine are new fixtures in the last 2yrs.
Hey Tony I recently found some festoon LED cluster bulbs on Ebay from China that are a direct replacement for the anchor/running light bulb. Nearly exact intensity (if not brighter) and a fraction of the amp load. I just can't see your top gal being very happy out there tying a lantern on your antenna in the dark. Hope all is well with your team. Mike
yes, tiki made a good point that should also go for your anchoring thread. LED light for anchor. I have one on mine and I know the draw is minimal (cause at times I forget it is still on for the next entire day).
Lots of great questions arising from Ras...always nice to have a newbee in the spring getting us going again on this stuff.
Dream 'Inn III -- 2008 400 Express
I didn't get your dash gauge picture last night but there must be some other way/resource to get the layout of the dash switches and what they are for your 270. Garys images above should give you something to look for in a faint word/icon. Tonight try turning the key to the on position and start from the left side and try each one. maybe check all the breakers 1st. Then get a pad and a label maker like I did. The only one that really threw me was the dimmer rocker but even that one submitted to my vast intellect....... after 6mths....
You only need to display an anchor light at the highest point (radar arch?) when anchored out. No nav lights needed when at a dock. The bow lights will submit to your will if you stick to it. I have no idea besides the fact that it's probably glued and screwed. Mine were shot when I bought the boat. You're not navigating the St Johns river at night just yet so don't worry about it so much.
Relax and focus on everyone enjoying their first few times on the new boat so that they want to do it more. A wise old sailor once told me that his main goal for a new crew was for them to have at least 12 goods days on-board (no freaky wind/weather/navigating) before they experienced a bad day(which will happen). It'll win them to the boating lifestyle and they'll have time to understand how reliable the boat really is. Good luck and take your time, being a good calm captain. The USCG course is a good idea. Your local power squadron is an even more through boating option to gain a broader knowledge and find like minded friends.
Mike