Proper mounting of masthead anchor light

[cghubbell]

Greetings... I picked up an Aqua Signal series 40 all-around light for my masthead, but it only came with the light - no brackets. It looks to me like I could just use holes in its base for both wiring and mounting, drill the mast top, tap, and use some machine screws (of course with tef-gel). This would mount the light directly on the mast head. Perhaps a layer of some kind of goop for a gasket...

Is it really that easy, or is there some reason why I'd regret this approach and need to seek out a bracket?

Thanks!

[thekeip]

You're right on. The Aqua Sig is one of the few that really does mount well to a flat surface. You should pay attention to the wire cable entrance though....strain relief, and all that. Otherwise, duck soup. (I always wondered what duck soup had to do with anything)....Anyway, an easy install. Use the opportunity to replace the bulb with the LED variety...it's way cool.
Howard Keiper
Berkeley

[cghubbell]

Wow. For once in this refit project I've actually stumbled on something that's as easy as it appears at first glance. Must be time to replace the through-hulls and find a delaminated hull section!

Thanks for confirming!

[LookingForCruiser]

Note that if you replace the bulb with the LED variety, it will no longer be USCG certified.

The Dr. LED bulb has had design changes since it's certification, and I believe is thus no longer certified.

[mitiempo]

For certification the complete fixture with bulb has to be approved. There are no bulbs that are certified by themselves.

[nickmerc]

If it not too late you can always return the light and go for their Series 32 tri/anchor. It is twice the cost, but certified and already an LED. It is also shorter than the series 40 and I think it looks better.

When I rewire my mast I will be making the change.
________
Vapolution

[sailingdog]

I like the AQ Series 32, but be aware their mounting design leaves a lot to be desired.

Originally Posted by nickmerc

If it not too late you can always return the light and go for their Series 32 tri/anchor. It is twice the cost, but certified and already an LED. It is also shorter than the series 40 and I think it looks better.

When I rewire my mast I will be making the change.

[cghubbell]

I took a long hard look at the LED options, and while I'm all for it, my budget is a bit constrained by this refit. I picked up the light on eBay for a great price, which is the only reason I picked the 40. I have 2 group 27 batteries, and not much electrical demand at all, so it won't kill me to use it in a stock configuration. For that matter, 90% of my use is day sailing that ends up back at my marina. I didn't even use my nav lights until I'd owned the boat for two months

I'm very tempted to use one of the aftermarket LED bulbs but for now I'm just trying to focus on getting the housing mounted and wires pulled through the conduit. If I have time before the mast gets stepped I'll think about upgrading the bulb, but I suspect my schedule and budget will nix the idea.

Thanks for all the feedback!

[Bene505]

cghubbell,

Pictures please. Other people will want to follow in your footsteps.

Regards,
BRad

[tager]

Really are you that concerned about following the law that you need your anchor bulb to be USCG certified? Really?

Do you expect the coasties to climb up to the top of the mast and check inside your fixture to see if the bulb was certified?

I know someone is going to argue that it is for insurance purposes. Sure that is a great argument, if you have insurance!