When to turn on navigation lights

B

baz

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 19, 2009
Messages
6,083
Fluid Motion Model
C-24 C
Just checking... is it correct that at sun down one should turn on the navigation lights ? If it's a very cloudy sky and one cannot see the sun then I presume one would use the official sunset time instead...
 
Nav lights are required from sunset to sunrise and in daylight hours when operating during periods of restricted visibility . The cloudy sky scenario you describe just might be one of those daylight times when you would want to have your navigation lights on.

This link http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine/19134.asp has some great info on navigation lights and their use.

In general if you are questioning whether the conditions you are running in require the use of your navigation lights then you should probably have them on. As far as I know there is no penalty for running with your nav lights on in better than reduced visibility conditions so when in doubt I run with mine on. I would rather be seen than run over any day (or night).

Eric
 
I agree... Same with flying... If the thought crosses your mind, turn on those lights...
And if you change out the bulbs for LED lamps, then just turn them on any time you start the engine... They will still be burning long after your engine has worn out...
 
Here's what the USCG has to say, in Navigation Rules > Part C (Lights and Shapes) > Rule 20 (Application) > part c:

  • The lights prescribed by these Rules shall, if carried, also be exhibited from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all other circumstances when it is deemed necessary.

Here are the complete USCG Navigation Rules Online.
 
Levitation":1mcf3v92 said:
I agree... Same with flying... If the thought crosses your mind, turn on those lights...
And if you change out the bulbs for LED lamps, then just turn them on any time you start the engine... They will still be burning long after your engine has worn out...
Click to expand...

Does anyone have any recommendations for LED replacements that meet the two mile requirement?

I've found quite a few that match for size, but there doesn't seem to be a direct correlation between the regular incandescant bulbs any any of the LEDs I've come across, i.e. none of the suppliers would commit as to the suitability for the requirement.
 
GulfSailor":m98yscj0 said:
Levitation":m98yscj0 said:
I agree... Same with flying... If the thought crosses your mind, turn on those lights...
And if you change out the bulbs for LED lamps, then just turn them on any time you start the engine... They will still be burning long after your engine has worn out...
Click to expand...

Does anyone have any recommendations for LED replacements that meet the two mile requirement?

I've found quite a few that match for size, but there doesn't seem to be a direct correlation between the regular incandescant bulbs any any of the LEDs I've come across, i.e. none of the suppliers would commit as to the suitability for the requirement.
Click to expand...

Obtain LEDs with equivalent Lumens... but it's complicated... http://store.marinebeam.com/coouinlu.html

Also, be careful... http://store.marinebeam.com/ledprandcobu.html

Here's a Ref URL for Ranger Tugs... http://store.marinebeam.com/ranger-tug-leds.html
 
Yep, I have dealt with Jeff over at Marine Beam several times and he is good to deal with and always gets back to you to answer questions. When ordering make sure you order the appropriate base for your fixture. Not every Ranger of the same model will have the same base for each lamp, so don't rely on any lists that may be published on other threads on this site. Check your current bulb bases before ordering.
 
knotflying":3q5uk344 said:
...........Check your current bulb bases before ordering.
Click to expand...

I intend to, good point!
 
Yup, Jeff at Marinebeam is my choice...
I can attest that the LED bulbs are visibly brighter than the incandescent, not only brighter but the color is more pure, especially the Green... ANd the white running light LED is blinding compared to the incandescent..
 
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