H31 mast wiring

[Richard Deep]

I have a wiring problem with the steaming light on my 1985 H31. Has anyone replaced the mast wiring on their boat? Can you do it without unstepping the mast? Does the wiring run in conduit or channel inside the mast? Is there a connector at the base of the mast or does the wiring run through a slot and into the interior of the boat?Any help would be greatly appreciated!Richard

 

[Bill Ebling]

On Yesterday's Dream...

the wiring runs for the most part up a conduit inside the mast. Mast wires make connection with the below deck wiring at the step with connectors; the waterproof type used for connecting stoplights to trailers.The below deck wiring emerges up though the center of the mast step through a short length of conduit. All the void spaces in this conduit are packed tightly with silicon caulk. The ends of the below deck wires are sufficiently long to form drip loops further keeping water from getting below deck. The inside wiring to the mast step plugs runs up a channel inside the compression post. You need to remove the heads' aft door jam to get access to this hidden passage. Richard... I can't see how you can rewire without unstepping the mast Bill Ebling Yesterday's DreamCrab Alley Bay, Kent Island MD1985 H31 Hull# 31395

 

[Michael O']

Step that mast!

No way around dropping the mast. Up here on Lake Erie, I do it every winter.How do you know it's the wiring and not the bulb or socket?When you step the mast, you'll get the inside view of the wiring mess. Just be very careful when re-stepping to make sure you don't chop off the wires as the mast sits back on the collar.

 

[Richard Deep]

Thanks for the info

Bill,Thanks for the excellent information. Based on the responses, looks like unstepping the mast is the only way to deal with the issue....Although, depending on the responses to Michael's question about upgrading the mast wiring, that might be an alternative!Thanks again,RichardS/V DiscoverySF, CA