What does a 2 or 3 pin base mean? And locking bases?

[Coastal Rick]

I have a little aluminum boat that I am fixing up as a fishing machine. I'm looking to add nav lights and there are sure lots of choices. I was thinking of going with the bow lights that are up on a short pole in the event I put a bow mount trolling motor or anchor guide up there - so the light could be seen over them. And a tall stern light, since it needs to be 1 meter above the bow lights. The wind and water around here can get pretty nasty along the coast (Southern Oregon) so I'd like a system that can handle the salt and rough conditions.

So I see that some lights, and bases, come with either a 2 or 3 pin version. I also hear about locking bases and poles. Can someone explain what the different pins are for? Also, any opinions on locking bases and if they are necessary in real situations like I describe?

Thanks!

 

[Boatist]

Re: What does a 2 or 3 pin base mean? And locking bases?

I am not sure but all I can figure is the 2 and 3 pin may be the number of connections where it plugs in. Most are 2 pins.

Many types of mounts. Some the the stern all around white light is wired in and just allows you to raise and lower the pole by sliding it in or out. Other the pole unplugs from the base and you can store it away. These types plug in then have a lock to keep it from comming unpluged and falling over board.

If you bow light is raised also then it may also unplug so you can store out of the way when not needed. Again this would have some sort of lock to keep it from vibrating loose and falling overboard.

 

[Coastal Rick]

Re: What does a 2 or 3 pin base mean? And locking bases?

Thanks Boatist for your answer. Does anyone have a good answer as to what is the difference between a two pin base and a three pin base? I'm guessing that a 2 pin just has a positive and a negative lead. What would you use the three pin base for?

I would want to get the kind of poles that are removable, for storage and practicality. Locking bases would be the way to go around here as running the bay can be rough - lots of strong wind most nice days. Winter is when I'd need the lights since the days are so short.

 

[j_martin]

Re: What does a 2 or 3 pin base mean? And locking bases?

Some places require lighting that changes and requires 2 bulbs. That would require a 3 wire base.

On your boat, you need 120 degree red-green navigation lights in the front that are on when underway, and an elevated white 360 degree light in the back that is on at all times at night. Both lights have only one bulb. The front lights need to be visible, so if you have other gear mounted on the bow, like a trolling motor, you need to use the slightly elevated version. The common base is a rotating collar deal that traps a screw head (pin) on the shaft of the light, and also grips the shaft snugly.

hope it helps
John