[C320-list] Source for LED lights for cabin

[Doug Treff]

Warren,

I'll add to your list - my 1996 (Hull 350) had the halogen (G4 side pin) and the fixtures had no switches. There is a switch panel below and to the right of the microwave with three switches to control various interior lights. In the aft berth was the only place where the halogen fixtures had their own switch. And the Vee berth light fixtures are these giant round domes with old style incandescent. I replaced most of my interior lighting with LED. It has made a huge difference in power consumption. Next up, replacing the fluorescent fixtures in the head and above the stove.

In the halogen fixtures I was able to install these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Q9B1ZQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I will say that the contact pins are fragile and I broke one while installing it, so order a few extra and be careful.

In the Vee Berth fixtures, I used these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EKKJG4C/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

They use way less power and generate almost no heat.

--
Doug Treff
doug at treff.us

On Tue, Oct 23, 2018, at 9:33 AM, Warren Updike wrote:
> Larry, you start with replacements for festoon bulbs then discuss new 
> fixtures. The fixtures on the 320 changed over the years. Initially they 
> were festoon incandescent bulbs, then halogen in fixtures with switches. 
> I assume newer hulls now have LED bulbs. 
> We have festoon fixtures on our # 62, and some years ago replaced the 
> bulbs with LEDs from MarineBeam.com and have been very happy. They had 
> both warm and cool colors. We still have the original fixtures.
> MarineBeam has an interesting technical article about controlling power 
> to LED bulbs. I wonder if the cheap imports have the type of controls 
> that are needed on boats where power can range from 12V to over 14V. 
> Switching to LEDs can have a significant impact on battery life. 
> 
> Warren and Pattie Updike
> 1994 C320 "Warr de Mar" #62
> Middle River, MD (Chesapeake Bay)
>