Hi everyone I own a Com-pac-19 II 1985. Soon to be named Mojito. My boat didn't come with an achor light, which in fla needs to be visable 360 for a distance of two miles. Bought a anchor light need some insight on how to mount it. My initial thoughts were to attach the light bracket to a two by four with an eyelit at each end and run it up the forstay. My mast light does plug in at the base of the mast which you guys probably already know. This would save me from having to run wiring though the 25ft mast. But I know that there has to be a better way. Pictures would be helpful.
Thanks,
Shane
Shane:
Running the wire through the mast isn't that hard. I bought a light at West Marine, made a bracket using some aluminum from Home Depot and screwed the bracket to the top of the mast. I'd advise not using sheet metal screws but drill and tap out the hole and use stainless machine screws.
The wire I used was jacketed so I could keep both wires protected from screws, etc that may be protruding inside the mast.
At the bottom of the mast, about 6 inches up, the wire exits and, using a cable clam, (again, West Marine), I brought it in through the deck and ultimately to the panel.
It sounds like more work than it is. Actually, it was a bit of work, but well worth it. Works great! Sorry, no pictures.
Bob23
Well you can use the Guest Anchor light. I used it on my CP19 and it worked just fine. hauled it up on a halyard, just be sure to add a down haul line. ;)
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d41/knlanf/85-452014.jpg)
http://www.foreandaftmarine.com/85-452014.htm
-Kevin
Thanks for the advice guys. I really appreciate it!
Shane
When cruising the North Channel of Lake Huron, I bought a set of solar powered yard lights and at night I hung one from the boom (to light the cockpit) and one from the shrouds. Prior to that I used to hang a "hurricane lamp (oil)" from the spreader. Although most "factory" installed anchor lights are mounted at the masthead, I found that your boat is much more visible in an anchorage with a light closer to the horizon where most boaters vision is focused, when in close proximity to other boats (as when navigating an anchorage). Decent quality solar powered led lamps will remain illuminated till daybreak and the simplicity of no wires et al might be worth considering.
Dennis' suggestion is a moneysaver for me since I have two of those solar yardlights in my garage collecting dust. Got them at Harbor Freight for $4.00 each "because I know I'll have a use for them " and now that I got a CP-16 I have that " use".