tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12084454.post3730888825165345218..comments2023-09-22T07:59:01.569-04:00Comments on Dick and Libby's Tarwathie Cruising Log: Signs of SpringDick Millshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13258088586638718333noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12084454.post-26612222852090435712012-03-13T22:35:29.567-04:002012-03-13T22:35:29.567-04:00I have to agree with Bill that it may be the sprin...I have to agree with Bill that it may be the spring - I've had the same problem with bow lights in the past. Usually I replace and then repair the offending unit, keeping it for spares. Seldom worth the extra trip up the stick unless you really have to - <br /><br />There are a few alternatives to replacing the entire fixture - <br /><br />a. Use solder to build up a larger tip on the base of the bulb. That way it pushes the base down further into the mount and might make up for the weakened spring, if that is in fact the problem. It makes for a much tighter fit. Be sure to carry an emory board or small file to remove the excess solder if you build it up too much.<br /><br />b. Use a more expensive and longer lived LED bulb that you prewire with lugs/plug. Then take up a set to rewire the fixture to match. Then you can use the base as a platform to tape the new bulb around, being sure to insulate it with tape prior to using tape to secure it. This is really just a temporary fix.<br /><br />One more suggestion - when you have the stick down this summer for the transit place 2 mast steps at a height so that you can stand on them above the top of the mast once you are hauled up - makes a world of difference to be able to look down on a problem instead of trying to feel your way around - Best of luck<br />Chip<br />These Days IIChiphttps://www.blogger.com/profile/03536409319449853453noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12084454.post-26926007747450054312012-03-13T14:39:31.302-04:002012-03-13T14:39:31.302-04:00I messed with that problem for exactly two trips u...I messed with that problem for exactly two trips up the mast.<br /><br />Second trip up, replaced the masthead light fixture.<br /><br />10 yrs later, still working fine.brigantinehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/12209370917771947352noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12084454.post-9076117154558939302012-03-13T11:53:16.436-04:002012-03-13T11:53:16.436-04:00This is only a guess, but it sounds to me as if th...This is only a guess, but it sounds to me as if the spring in the base lost some of it's tension.<br /><br />Bill KelleherBill Khttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00912599099774634267noreply@blogger.com