Mast wiring harness location

[Boat Babe]

New boat to me (Cal 28- '87) and none of my mast lights work. I've checked the power in the 3 circuits (Anchor, Streaming and foredeck lights) where they enter the mast support in the bilge, but there must be a harness somewhere on deck near the mast boot, right? I've looked everywhere (including the cabin ceiling). Could it be inside the base of the mast, and only visible when the mast is lifted out of the support? (can you tell I'd rather not climb the mast??) Thanks for any assistance.

 

[Rob19574]

Under the mast -step

Steph - it is probaly located under the mast-step inside the actual mast. You will need to step the mast to access the plug that may be defective....sounds like it may be a ground wire though if all 3 lights are out. Did you try grounding the mast to see if they then work? If so - you may solve the problem unitl you go through having the mast steped (a yard will charge you about $500 for that).Rob

 

[Bill Roosa]

It's corrosion

Did the lights all go out at one time? That would be a single wire failure. Much more likely that the housings for the lights are just corroded or the bulbs burned out.Going aloft is fun? Get a board, drill some holes and rig a seat. Get the first mate and kids to hoist you up. It is great family fun. Don't forget to take the hoisting rope for the bucket with all the tools in it.