Splice Mast Bonding Wire?

[SteveB]

I inadvertently cut the mast ground wire during unstepping process (see photo). Can I splice this wire or should it be replaced? Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[justsomeguy]

You can splice it.

 

[SteveB]

Thanks, Justsome... wasn't looking forward to locating the keel connection. Splice will be easier.

 

[rgranger]

When you say "ground wire" are you talking about the mast head light or a lightening protection system? I don't think that wire is a large enough gauge to be a lightening suppression wire.

 

[SteveB]

Sorry, granger, I meant lightening protection system. Wire looks like 4/0 but I'll measure for sure tomorrow.

 

[gdudik]

Using that bottle jack for scale that sure doesn’t look like 4/0. 4ga maybe, but not 4/0.

 

[mnmpizza]

SteveB: what model boat is yours?

 

[SteveB]

Yeah, I'll measure it tomorrow. Boat is a 1984 Hunter 34.

 

[mnmpizza]

Yeah, I'll measure it tomorrow. Boat is a 1984 Hunter 34.

Thought it looked familiar

 

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[justsomeguy]

I don't think that wire is a large enough gauge to be a lightening suppression wire.

I don't think any gauge wire is beefy enough for conducting lightning.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

Not sure what that wire is nor what is it's intended purpose but note there is a difference between 'bonding' and 'grounding', The latter to aide in lightning protection.

The distinction is important and often confused.

Book are written on this distinction. I won't elaborate except to suggest you research both.