Taking Power from Outboard Engine

[jenjo]

I want to install some nav lights and running lights by taking power from a 20 HP merc. Should this be done. I need to consider pulling power from the distributor or the stater, or the kill leads and would this create to much draw on the engine to run some nav lights? Has anyone mess with this before?

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Not a great Idea if this is a manual start engine which it must be. Just put a small battery in your boat, just a small garden tractor battery will run running lights a long time.

 

[JB]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

I agree with LD.

 

[Mettaree]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Use LED's( running lights ) to get even longer life out of whatever battery you would decide to use. They even have rope lights( 6' lenghts ) for +12V now. Lotsa choices out there.

 

[jegervais]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Depending on how old your engine is, the manufacturer may (still) offer either a low amperage battery charging kit, which would keep your small battery topped off. <br /><br />Or possibly an AC lighting kit. This typically will run up to a certain wattage amount - if you run too few lights, they will burn brightly and burn out quicker, or too many lights and then they'll be dim. Of course with an AC lighting kit, you will only have power to run lights while the engine is running.<br /><br />-John

 

[jtexas]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Also, if you're anchored you'll still need the anchor light, and the nav lights if you're drifting. without the motor running.

 

[GaCracker]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Same idea, but I use the battery out of the riding lawnmower.<br /><br />Then if I run it dead, no harm done

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Taking Power from Outboard Engine

Hooking lights anywhere in the ignition system will likely kill the engine. Bulbs are low resistance which acts like a short (or another kill switch). Bad idea.