Replacing Boat Docking Lights: A Step-By-Step Bulb Guide

Boat docking lights are like headlights, helping to illuminate the way when docking at night. They are not meant to be kept on while moving through the water, as they can distract or temporarily blind other boaters. These lights come in a variety of shapes and colours, with some featuring halogen bulbs and others LEDs.

If you need to change the bulb in your boat docking lights, the process will depend on the type of light you have. Some can be accessed from inside the boat, while others need to be removed from the outside. In some cases, it may be necessary to break the bulb in order to remove it. When replacing the bulb, it is important to choose the correct type and size for your specific light fixture.

How to access boat docking lights

To access your boat docking lights, you will first need to determine the type of docking lights installed on your boat. For example, some boats have stainless steel docking lights, while others have white plastic housing and bezels.

Accessing Stainless Steel Docking Lights

If you have stainless steel docking lights, you will need to remove the four screws holding the stainless steel bezel in place. Once the bezel is removed, you can then remove the bulb. In some cases, you may also need to unhook a small spring to fully remove the bulb.

Accessing White Plastic Housing and Bezel Docking Lights

If your boat has white plastic housing and bezel docking lights, as is the case for some Cobalt boats, you will need to remove the entire assembly from the outside of the boat. This may involve unplugging the wiring harness. Once the assembly is removed, you can then access the inner housing, which contains the bulb and wires. This inner housing is held in place by a small Allen-head set screw, which can be loosened using an Allen key. You may need to gently tap the edge of the inner housing with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Once loosened, the inner housing can be pivoted and slid out of the outer housing. The bulb and wiring can then be accessed by unplugging the inner housing from the wiring in the outer housing.

It is important to note that some bulbs may need to be broken and replaced as a unit, as the bulb diameter may be larger than the opening of the housing. Additionally, soaking the housing in hot water can help make the plastic more pliable and easier to work with.

Removing the old bulb

To remove the old bulb from your boat's docking lights, you'll first need to turn off the circuit breaker to the light you're working on. This is an important safety precaution. If there are other people on board, you may want to put a piece of tape over the breaker with a message such as "Don't turn on; work in progress" or simply "NO!".

Next, you'll need to remove the trim ring and glass from the light fixture. The screws on most brands of lights are tiny, so be careful not to lose them! Put them in a cup or container while you work.

If you want to reuse the old bulb (either in a infrequently used light or to sell or give away), be sure to use a piece of paper or cloth when handling it. Touching a halogen bulb with your bare fingers will leave oil on it, and because of the high heat that halogen bulbs produce, this can damage the bulb and cause it to blow up.

If the bulb is a "G4" style, as most dome lights are, you can simply pull it out – the two little wires will just slide out. Other bulb styles may require the bulb to be twisted slightly and then pulled out.

If your bulb is housed in a plastic casing, you may need to break the bulb in order to get it out. This is not a problem and won't affect your ability to replace the bulb. However, be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when handling broken glass.

If your bulb is housed in a stainless steel casing, you'll need to remove the four screws holding the bezel on before you can access the bulb. You may also need to unhook a small spring in order to remove the bulb.

Once you've removed the old bulb, you can move on to installing the new one.

Choosing the right replacement bulb

Type of Bulb

LED bulbs are a popular choice for boat docking lights due to their low power consumption, long lifespan, and bright illumination. They are also available in a variety of colours, such as blue, red, and white. LED bulbs can be purchased from marine suppliers or online retailers.

Halogen bulbs are another option, but they tend to consume more power and generate significant heat. If you decide to use halogen bulbs, be careful not to touch the bulb with bare fingers as the oil from your skin can damage the bulb and pose a safety hazard.

Brightness

Docking lights are designed to provide bright illumination to ensure safe and accurate positioning during docking or mooring in low-light conditions. Therefore, choosing a bulb with sufficient brightness is essential. Look for bulbs with higher lumens or a higher wattage to achieve brighter light.

Compatibility

It is important to ensure that the replacement bulb is compatible with your boat's docking light fixture. Check the size, shape, and type of bulb required. Some bulbs may be specific to certain boat models, so it is advisable to consult your boat's manual or seek advice from a marine specialist.

Ease of Installation

Consider the ease of installation when choosing a replacement bulb. Some bulbs may require simple screw replacements, while others may need more complex wiring adjustments. If you plan to install the bulbs yourself, opt for those that come with clear instructions and require minimal modifications to your existing setup.

Cost and Availability

Replacement bulbs can vary in price, and it's important to consider your budget when making a selection. Additionally, ensure that the bulbs you choose are readily available from reliable suppliers to avoid future inconveniences.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right replacement bulb for your boat's docking lights, ensuring safety, functionality, and an enjoyable boating experience.

Installing the new bulb

To install the new bulb, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure you have the correct bulb for your fixture. It is important to know the type of base and wattage required. If you are unsure, you can refer to the old bulb for reference.

If you are reusing the old halogen bulb, be sure to handle it with a piece of paper or cloth as touching it with bare fingers can leave oil, which may damage the bulb and cause it to blow up.

Next, attach the correct adapter to the wiring of the new LED bulb. If it is a "G4" style bulb, with two wires, simply plug the bulb into the socket.

Now, turn on the power and fixture to test the bulb. Ensure it works before proceeding.

After testing, switch off the power and route the wire down the centre section, dry-fitting the bulb into the fixture.

Peel off the backing from the double-sided tape and stick the bulb to the fixture, pressing hard so that it stays in place.

Finally, put the lens and trim ring back on, screwing them into place.

The process should take around 5 minutes per fixture.

Testing the new bulb

Prepare the Work Area:

Before testing the new bulb, ensure that you have a clear and well-lit work area. If you have removed the bulb from its packaging, keep it close at hand. Have a new bulb of the same type ready as a backup in case there are any issues with the first one. You will also need a dry cloth or gloves to handle the bulb without leaving fingerprints, as oil from your skin can damage the bulb.

Inspect the New Bulb:

Visually inspect the new bulb for any signs of damage. Check for cracks, chips, or blackening on the glass or filament. If the bulb is an LED, examine the base for any signs of corrosion or damage. If the bulb appears damaged, do not install it and replace it with a new one.

Install the New Bulb:

Refer to the instructions provided with your boat docking light fixture for the correct installation procedure. Ensure that the power is turned off before installing the new bulb. Carefully insert the bulb into the fixture, making sure it is securely seated and aligned correctly. If the bulb has a specific orientation, ensure that it is installed accordingly.

Restore Power and Test:

Once the new bulb is installed, restore power to the docking light circuit. Turn on the docking lights to test the new bulb. Observe the brightness and colour of the light. It should match the specifications of the bulb and provide adequate illumination for docking. If the bulb does not light up or seems dim, turn off the power and check the connections. Ensure that the bulb is properly seated and the connections are secure.

Final Checks:

After confirming that the new bulb functions correctly, turn off the power again. Check the bulb for any signs of overheating, discolouration, or unusual odours. If the bulb appears normal, you can proceed to reassemble any remaining components of the docking light fixture. If you notice any issues, further troubleshooting may be required. Refer to the bulb manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from a marine electrician.

Frequently asked questions