[C320-list] Better reading light in aft cabin

[warren updike]

After choking over the obscene prices for LED fixtures at the boat shows, I
ended up with simple battery powered LED lights that attach with removable
adhesive. These lights are by Sylvania, use 3 AA or AAA batteries, and last
the season. I attach them to the overhead (the lower part,) and it is enough
to read by with the added benefit that I can reach the light to turn on/off
without having to get up on my knees to reach the **&^ switch as on the
others.

Sylvania also makes a "Dragon" LED light (Sam's Club) that turns off
automatically after 1 hour.  

I've also had luck with RiteLight puck lights (bath stores,
HarborFreight.com,) that are 3 AA batteries, 5 bright white LEDs, and the
light ring angle is adjustable and rotates. These have been very useful.

I experimented with the RiteLight by wireing into my boat 12V system. I did
this by replacing the batteries with wood dowel. The dowel has a screw in
each end to provide the contacts. One piece has to be fitted with a resister
to reduce the voltage from 12V to that required by the light. This worked
fine; but, for general area lighting in the cabin, I'm using 12V LED festoon
replacements. I've not yet found the one that fits just right; but, I will.


Incidently, the initial 12V festoon LEDs I bought were from
superbrightled.com and I paid about $6 for two. Compare that to WM where
they are about $8 for one.


Warren & Pattie Updke
Catalina 320, #62, "Warr De Mar"
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay