Searchlight - repair or replace and relocate?

[Vincentc]

The big chrome spotlight which came with the boat, still works, but is not very bright. Possibly a new bulb would help, but since I am adding a radar mast, I am now wondering about mounting a new smaller and brighter searchlight on the mast above the radar dome. The radar dome will be mounted about a foot above the bimini. The photo below show where the new mast will go and where the old searchlight is.

I see where there are some nice looking searchlights in the $200-$300 range with wireless controls:

ACR
GoLight 2000
Guest/Marinco Beamer 501A

Comments sought regarding experience with these lights and or mounting a searchlight higher. Also, wired or wireless? Since I steer from both the helm and the FB, the wireless would simplify things.

Thanks

 

[Nonchalant1]

Vincent,

If that's the original RayLine searchlight, definitely keep it. It is a very good light and is very bright when used with the correct bulb. If it's 32 volt, the bulbs cost $50 or so, but are excellent and last years.

Doug

 

[SKYCHENEY]

I agree. Keep the light. To replace it with a comparable Carlisle & Finch is around $8000. Those $200 lights look fine on a Sea Ray, but a classic Hatteras needs a real classic chrome light.

 

[Vincentc]

thanks for the information.

It is a Ray-Line / Jabsco, 12 volt. A quick internet search indicates that the replacement bulb might be more like $90. I need to be sure about the model number.

I appreciate the traditional look and will probably keep the big light, but still wonder if a small light up high would not be very noticable and would work better and do less damage to my night vision.

Regards,

 

[jcchev]

I recently added the new Jabsco dual beam wireless remote control light on my bow pulpit and am totally satisfied with it. Shop carefully online and there are a couple sources that are a couple hundred $$ less than the average retail cost. I find it far superior to the old style light I have on my flybridge (1972 Chris Craft Cdr YF).

Happy Thanksgiving,

Clint

 

[jcchev]

Here is the link where I found the best price on the new Jabsco dual beam light


http://www.rivermarinesupply.com/xcart/catalog/product_12701_Jabsco_233SL_Dual_Beam_SearchLight.html


Clint