Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: 1997 17' Dauntless DC Electrical Problem

Posted by dauntless-n-miami on 07/11/16 - 12:39 PM
#2

Hello hamiltonstreet11, check your console light switch for proper ground and that corrosion hasn't caused an internal fault or at the wire connections. You can use a multi-meter (in continuity setting) to see if switch functions. If switch checks out then read on.

Since you have the big brother to my Dauntless 15 I will conclude your Navigation light wiring should be similarly run as is mine. If you have the single (dual lens Red/Green) Perko bow light the wiring is typically ran through the rub-rail on your starboard side. Chase the wiring from your helm station to the gunnel to better determine where the wiring exits out. Most likely it will exit just under your stern light deck mount.

If you want to confirm, simply pull out a short amount of your rub-rail insert (black vinyl tubing) where you suspect wiring comes through gunnel.

With my Dauntless 15 I found that just under where my stern/anchor light mounts (cavity in gunnel) is a wiring distribution point for bow and stern Navigation lights. I found corrosion with spliced wires and Butt-terminals.

It's possible that the bulb contacts are causing a fault so remove the chrome bow light cover and inspect, while there pull up the light assembly and inspect wiring connections just inside the deck hole. Pull carefully to expose wires.

One other thing I uncovered while redoing my nav. lights, where the wiring exits/enters the hull from rub-rail the drilled through holes (roughly 5/16 diameter) lacked adequate sealing thus allowing minor water intrusion into the hull.

If you removed any of the nav. light fixtures (bow/stern) remember to reseal with appropriate marine sealant.

Hope this helps...best regards,
Angel M.