who runs headlights

R

rob_g

Active member
just had a quick question about putting a couple of headlights on my semi-v tin boat. What do i need to run them. I have a newer 2 stroke yamaha 15hp for it. can you get an alternator or stator for these motors to run the lights without a battery? was never good at wiring or probably ever will be so just wondering. Any kind of help would be good.

need them for running tight twisty rivers in the dark, figured this would be the best bet instead of trying to hold a spotlight while running the boat.

thanks

rob
 
For narrow twisty creeks, I find a hand-held spotlight works better. That is becaue you can aim it around the bends & turns and other targets instead of having a set of non-moveable headlights light up the trees in front of you when entering a sharp corner.

Unless it is pitch black, in most cases you are probably better off using your night vision & only using the spot light when really needed. I have always found this to work best for me.
 
First off I do not know the Law in NJ but in NH the only lights "while running" the river allowed are red/green bow and a 360 white stern light if we are talking a duck boat sized rig.

"Dock lights" are for docking. "Driving lights" are for cars. Moreover whenever you have extra light you ruin your night vision risking not seeing someones running lights and possible confusing an on-coming boat to think they are coming up behind you.... not good!!!! A hand held is good for spotting landmarks and nav. aids but if your just trying to make time to your "spot" consider the fact that there are a lot of people out there in canoes and such without lights even if it is not legal.

My opinion; Stick to the hand held with a red lens cover, get up earlier and go just a little slower.
 
I have some friends who insist on using lights all over their boats. Personally I prefer using my own built in night vision, and keeping any lights to a minimum. Your Yamaha has the capability of charging a batter as it sits right now, you just need to purchase a "rectifier kit" from your Yamaha dealer and install it, and voila, you have 10 amp charging capability! Just run a pair of cables from your rectifier to the battery and you have a built in charger. If I remember correctly the rectifier kit should be about $80-$100.
 
yeah i hear ya. I just figured this would be better because there is alot of crap in the water. fallen trees, branches, rocks, that sort of stuff. we paddled canoes for years, and basically have become sick of it haha. what i need is a mud motor. but then i'd probably wreck the boat running stuff over
 
I agree with everyone, its better to run with starlight. But get a 2 million watt light hand held, they come in handy. In south Florida when the air boats crank up they always seem to get a little to close for comfort and the light works wonders. Good Luck..John
 
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