Various articles covering frequently asked questions, informative bits of information, and even a spot of humor.
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The factory did not maintain strict wire color coding. Color codes used were not the same across all models. Start with the diagrams in your owners manual but expect surprises. There is no limit to what the commissioning dealer and a series of owners may have done.
Most devices are simple 12 VDC with a positive wire (usually red) and a ground wire (usually black). Complex kits usually have detailed instructions and proper connectors. If it is something like a VHF radio or charger / inverter, refer to the original installation manual or find it online. You’ll find wiring diagrams online with many products and in Tech Articles.
No. In boats built in the 80's or earlier, wiring was usually bonded in place during construction. Newer boats often have PVC pipe "chases" bonded below the cabin liner for running behind or below the stove, for example. Except where there is an obvious chase, new wires must be run externally. Hide them bundled with existing wires up under the trim at the hull/deck joint or cover them for a seamanlike installation.
Check the Specifications tab to be sure it is right for your boat. Matching style or year range may avoid drilling new holes. You may need special brackets when adding a new fixture. Aqua Signal discontinued their marine lighting in 2022. When current inventory is exhausted (pricing will be removed from the web site) you will have to use a substitute, probably Hella that is also available on the site.
They exist but are very expensive. Coast Guard regulations require substantial testing to be certified which comes at a high cost. Also, the manufactures didn’t reference earlier designs when creating the next generation LED fixtures, therefore mounting holes are not the same. We offer a few newer fixtures with LEDs, but primarily offer Coast Guard certified LED modules for upgrading the earlier fixtures. This is less expensive and doesn’t require drilling new holes.
The factory did not maintain strict wire color coding. Color codes used were not the same across all models. Start with the diagrams in your owners manual but expect surprises. There is no limit to what the commissioning dealer and a series of owners may have done.
Most devices are simple 12 VDC with a positive wire (usually red) and a ground wire (usually black). Complex kits usually have detailed instructions and proper connectors. If it is something like a VHF radio or charger / inverter, refer to the original installation manual or find it online. You’ll find wiring diagrams online with many products and in Tech Articles.
No. In boats built in the 80's or earlier, wiring was usually bonded in place during construction. Newer boats often have PVC pipe "chases" bonded below the cabin liner for running behind or below the stove, for example. Except where there is an obvious chase, new wires must be run externally. Hide them bundled with existing wires up under the trim at the hull/deck joint or cover them for a seamanlike installation.
Check the Specifications tab to be sure it is right for your boat. Matching style or year range may avoid drilling new holes. You may need special brackets when adding a new fixture. Aqua Signal discontinued their marine lighting in 2022. When current inventory is exhausted (pricing will be removed from the web site) you will have to use a substitute, probably Hella that is also available on the site.
They exist but are very expensive. Coast Guard regulations require substantial testing to be certified which comes at a high cost. Also, the manufactures didn’t reference earlier designs when creating the next generation LED fixtures, therefore mounting holes are not the same. We offer a few newer fixtures with LEDs, but primarily offer Coast Guard certified LED modules for upgrading the earlier fixtures. This is less expensive and doesn’t require drilling new holes.
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