Remote searchlight

Dr Doof · 12 February 2011, 20:57

Looking at getting one of these.

Does anyone know if there any good?

Thanks
http://www.sailsmarine.com/ImageProduct/36469.gif

Its either this one or a Jabsco

Erin · 12 February 2011, 21:40

I fitted a Jabsco one some years back to a boat. Have to say, I wasn't very impressed with its design and likely durability. The contacts and motor were pretty much exposed in the mounting base and would rely entirely on the foam gasket between the base and your mounting surface to maintain a seal. As we all know, salt water gets in everywhere, so I'm sure corrosion wouldn't be far behind.

Dr Doof · 12 February 2011, 21:51

Link to Golight
http://www.sailsmarine.com/ItemDetail.aspx?c=9760

Thanks for reply Erin.

bogib · 12 February 2011, 21:52

Golight is far better than identical Jabsco, have tried both and there are substantial difference Golight in favour.

Personally would fit with the wire remote...... easy to loose the wireless remote

Bogi

willk · 12 February 2011, 22:01

Not wanting to piss on anyone's parade, but I notice a substantial number of Wheelhouse ribs being fitted with hand operated through-roof searchlights.

High powered handhelds seem to be perfect for an open rib. They can be fitted with a console mount for "handsfree" pointing.

I'd share Erin's concerns and I'm very doubtful about the controllability of a Jabasco remote in anything but flat calm conditions. Just my tuppence worth

SPR · 12 February 2011, 22:12

Dont know how bright these search lights are but:

http://www.fenixlight.com/viewnproduct.asp?id=86

Nice Torch 820 lumens ! 333 Metre Throw , on my list to buy soon...

Scott

martini · 12 February 2011, 22:33

Quote:

Originally Posted by willk

Not wanting to piss on anyone's parade, but I notice a substantial number of Wheelhouse ribs being fitted with hand operated through-roof searchlights.

High powered handhelds seem to be perfect for an open rib. They can be fitted with a console mount for "handsfree" pointing.

I'd share Erin's concerns and I'm very doubtful about the controllability of a Jabasco remote in anything but flat calm conditions. Just my tuppence worth

I'd add to that, the further aft you position the light source, the more of the boat is going to get lit up. This is going to make it all the harder to see anything outside of the boat. Driving at night I feel more comfortable keeping onboard illumination down to a minimum to help my night vision. Once your eyes get accustomed and hopefully with a bit of moonlight it's surprising how much you can see.

Mollers · 12 February 2011, 23:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by willk

I'd share Erin's concerns and I'm very doubtful about the controllability of a Jabasco remote in anything but flat calm conditions. Just my tuppence worth

Yep, I had a remote Jabesco mounted on the A frame of the old 6.5m. Ok ish in smooth water, useless otherwise. A decent handheld on a 12v socket is the way to go IMV.

Dr Doof · 13 February 2011, 00:07

Thanks all.

Very helpful.

Channel Ribs · 13 February 2011, 06:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by martini

I'd add to that, the further aft you position the light source, the more of the boat is going to get lit up. This is going to make it all the harder to see anything outside of the boat.

And I would add further still. By the time you add in some light being thrown back by very shiny salt spray, it is too easy to stop your eyes getting accustomed.

On night passages I have even found myself transfixed by the reflection from the nav lights in the foam either side of the boat, better to keep the light low and your eyes on the sea.

As already said if you need light for coming into shadowy marinas then a handheld is a better bet, easier to stabilise on a rocking boat too.

willk · 13 February 2011, 13:53

These are used on Irish CG ribs. They're very good, pricey though...

I have a cheapo replica (ebay) that works just fine. There is an optional surface mounted spigot that secures the lamp in any position for handsfree use or a handy grab. I use a waterproof externally fitted 12v socket.

Dr Doof · 13 February 2011, 16:19

I've got one of those, where did you get the mounting bracket?

willk · 13 February 2011, 18:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr Doof

I've got one of those, where did you get the mounting bracket?

I don't have the bracket, you can get one here

I've seen them up close here

They seemed like good kit.

Razorbill RIBs · 13 February 2011, 20:45

Quote:

Originally Posted by willk

I have a cheapo replica (ebay) that works just fine. There is an optional surface mounted spigot that secures the lamp in any position for handsfree use or a handy grab. I use a waterproof externally fitted 12v socket.

You don't have a linky to the replica by any chance Willk? Can't find it for looking

Nos4r2 · 13 February 2011, 21:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by Razorbill RIBs

You don't have a linky to the replica by any chance Willk? Can't find it for looking

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/12V-HAND-BOAT-...item19c3160993

I've got one too. Grease the plug or it'll rust. Excellent bit of kit.

willk · 13 February 2011, 22:28

That's it. Watch Mr12V Marine, he's tricksy with VAT. I used a different seller. Cut the plug off and fit a decent deck socket and plug.

Dr Doof · 13 February 2011, 23:45

Thanks Willk.