Wiring/Grounding Jon Boat

[Dalpatine]

I am trying to wire some driving lights to my Jon boat. I understand everything except where I am supposed to ground the two wires that come off of the back of each individual light as well as where I run the ground wire that comes off the back of the switch. I have been told not to attach the grounds to the boat itself, but I don't know what else to do. Is there any diagram that can show me how or does anyone have any advice. I am new to this so I appreciate all the help.

 

[Splat]

Re: Wiring/Grounding Jon Boat

Ok couple things. You shouldnt use drivinglights on your boat like you would on a car. They can blind other boaters. Your use may be specific, but in general navigation should be done using the ambient light around you, its super easy with a full moon, but even on the darkest of nights there is enough light to navigate once your eyes adjust.

The negative of all of your accessories, including the ground for your lighted switch should be ran to either a grounding block connected to the negative terminal, or connected directly to the battery its self. Do not use the hull as a ground. Doing so allows for galvanic corrosion.

Check the sticky at the top of the forums for a generic wiring diagram Silvertip made. It should answer any questions you have.

Bill

 

[arks]

Re: Wiring/Grounding Jon Boat

The negative of all of your accessories, including the ground for your lighted switch should be ran to either a grounding block connected to the negative terminal, or connected directly to the battery its self. Do not use the hull as a ground. Doing so allows for galvanic corrosion.

I'm guessing you mean navigation lights. I added them to my 14' Jon. IMO it was well worth the effort.
+1 - I agree with Splat. All negative wiring needs to run to the (-) battery post, either directly or thru a block.
Of course, the positve (+) wiring should include a fuse to prevent problems in case of a short.
Iboats sells everything you'll need.