C27, 1985 Grounding

[Gerard A. Holker]

My friends Saber 426 was recently hit by lightening frying the VHF, auto pilot, gps, chart plotter/radar and cracking the topside along the genoa track.I purchased my '85 27 3 years ago with a complete owners manuel that discribes grounding and lightening strike prevention (as a new owner I read ALL the documention!!). I didn't see the location of a ground bar noted anywher. Can someone help with info.My set up is less extensive than the 426, but non the less valueable to me.Thanks and regards.

 

[Ray Bowles]

Nigel Calder's Books cover this subject.

Gerard, good lightening protection is quite detailed to be done right. We installed a complete bonding system on our IP 38. It started with a plate of about 18" x 12" and ended with the "brush ball" atop the mast. This project took over 1 week for the 2 of us working full time and included a haulout. It is also expensive and not a foolproof system when done. Nigel Calder has written some excellent books on marine electrical systems and lightening protection. You might find the cost for a good system exceeds the cost of replacement goods after a strike. This could be different if your boat is fully equiped for long term cruising.Hope this helps.Ray