Adding Spreader Lights

brainula

Cadet
Joined
Feb 14, 2013
Messages
19
I am planning on adding a pair of LED spreader lights on my 1973 Coronado 27 sailboat.

The spreaders were not previously wired.

My question is (because this boat is pretty minimalistic in terms of hardware size, strength and quality) would I be weakening the spreader tubes (probably about 1 1/4 or 1 1/2" diameter) by drilling a hole to run the lamp wiring inside the spreader tube and into the mast? Versus attaching the wiring cable to the outside of the spreader tube and leading it to the mast?
 

SolingSailor

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Dec 24, 2009
Messages
197
Re: Adding Spreader Lights

I think you'd be OK drilling minimal size holes in the spreaders.
 

Grub54891

Vice Admiral
Joined
Jun 17, 2012
Messages
5,908
Re: Adding Spreader Lights

Actuall better off to run them on the outside of the spreader,to the mast then in. Most are set up that way. Then if when the mast has to come down,the splice is easy to remove,when taking the spreaders off if need be. Also helps if troubleshooting ant issues with them. Heck,the lights dont need to be out by the ends,they can be tucked about 6" from the mast.
Grub
 
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