Replacement All-round Lamp - Moderated Discussion Areas

  ContinuousWave
  Whaler
  Moderated Discussion Areas
  ContinuousWave: Whaler Repairs/Mods
  Replacement All-round Lamp

search | FAQ | profile | register | author help

Author Topic:   Replacement All-round Lamp

phillips407 posted 11-22-2011 12:54 PM ET (US)
The 1988 13 [Boston Whaler boat] I'm working on has a two piece SS bracket on [the Starboard] inside of transom near wiring for a [white all-round lamp]--but no lamp fixture. The top bracket has male threads measured at 1-1/4-inch dia. on top with a vertical hole thru inside. Directly below that hole, about 2-inch down is the second bracket with a 3/4-inch vertical hole which lines up with the upper hole. It's where I would expect the [lamp pole] to be, but I've not seen a [lamp] that would screw on to such a fitting. Does anyone know of such a [lamp] and where I might find a replacement? Thanks for any help you can give me. phillip
Tom W Clark posted 11-22-2011 01:01 PM ET (US)
Your local Boston Whaler dealer can order you a replacement [white all-round lamp] for your boat. It is not an off-the-shelf pole [lamp] like you might find at the local chandlery, though it is made for Whaler by Perko.
Do not use an aluminum pole [lamp fixture] from the boat store; it will seize up in the fitting in no time.
If you do not have a good local dealer I suggest you call Sue Lodel at Twin Cities Marine, a very long time Boston Whaler dealer. Sue is most knowledgeable and helpful and will ship to you anywhere.
http://twincitiesmarine.com/
jimh posted 11-22-2011 01:15 PM ET (US)
A 13-foot Boston Whaler does not have a sternlight. It shows a white all-round light.
You need a new lamp and pole fixture for a white all-round light.
Tohsgib posted 11-22-2011 01:54 PM ET (US)
Not to mention the cap that screws onto the threads which tightens down the [all-round lamp] you will be purchasing. Prepare for major sphincter pain when you get the quote.
jimh posted 11-22-2011 10:13 PM ET (US)
The light is what you see. The light comes from the lamp.
A sternlight is a specialized navigation signal that is shown over a limited arc from the stern of a boat, in combination with a masthead light. Most small boats do not show a sternlight; they show a white all-round light.
Tom W Clark posted 11-22-2011 10:26 PM ET (US)
[Gave an essay on the difference between sternlights and stern lights.]
Tom W Clark posted 11-23-2011 09:55 AM ET (US)
We were talking about a stern light, not a sternlight. While the stern light in a 13 foot Whaler is not really stern (nor is it genial either) it is a light that is in the stern of the 13 foot Whaler, which is why Boston Whaler itself refers to this light as a stern light.
However, I do not think arguing about what to call the white all-round lamp on a pole in the stern of a 13 foot Whaler is particularly helpful to Phillip when all he is trying to do is procure the damn thing. Perhaps we could not drag this any further into the weeds and simply help Phillip find the stern light that he needs.
jimh posted 11-23-2011 12:05 PM ET (US)
Tom--Please stop confusing people with inappropriate names for navigation lamps. Your suggestion that readers will recognize the difference between "stern light" and "sternlight" is highly speculative. CONTINUOUSWAVE tries to use the proper names for maritime devices.
Next you will want to call the combined sidelights the "bow light." I can't have CONTINUOUSWAVE sinking to such bad usage.
jimh posted 11-23-2011 12:08 PM ET (US)
It's a slippery slope, and soon we'll be talking about "bumpers" instead of fenders, and "ropes" instead of lines.
phillips407 posted 11-23-2011 12:32 PM ET (US)
Sorry for all the confusion, but I learned from it and did find that the standard "all-round" light at the back end of the whaler indeed comes at a "puckering" cost. I also learned that Sue Lodel at Twin Cities is a very helpful and gracious person. I now must decide if to "restore" the light or go to a much less expensive "fix". Thank you all for your help. This is by far the BEST forum I've ever participated in. Happy Thanksgiving to all---phillip
jimh posted 11-23-2011 01:32 PM ET (US)
Another fine point of navigation rules is the requirement for vertical separation between the sidelights and the all-round light, but, if you are renovating an older boat--which was in compliance at the time it was built--you can renovate to the original lighting. Otherwise you want a 1-meter vertical separation between the sidelights and the all-round light. That can result in a somewhat awkwardly tall lamp pole on a small boat.
Jefecinco posted 11-23-2011 02:37 PM ET (US)
The stern all-round white light on my 1981 13 Sport is in need of eventual replacement and does not appear to be original. Should it be the same light as the one under discussion on this thread? If it is not the same would you please tell me what the correct light would be and a possible source? The forward bi-color navigation light appears to be original and looks as though it can be reconditioned. The lenses appear to be intact but you never know until the light is disassembled. None of the lights operate and I'd like to have them operational though I doubt I'll ever need to turn them on.
Thank you.
Butch
Tom W Clark posted 11-23-2011 03:20 PM ET (US)
Phillip -- What was the price Sue quoted? The last time I asked her I think it was up to about $225. Specialty Marine offers a knock-off that looks pretty good. I've never handled one myself but for the potential price savings, it might be worth investigating:
http://www.specialtymarine.com/ Boston-Whaler-Classic-Stern-Light-Anchor-Light-p127.html
Yes, your 1988 Sport 13 would require the 55 inch tall [white all-round light] to meet the strict rule of having the [white all-round light] one meter above the [sidelights].
Butch, your 1981 would have originally had a 36-inch-tall [lamp] but upgrading to the 55-inch-tall [lamp] will certainly make your boat easier to see at night.
In 1981 the pole of the [lamp] was made of chrome plated brass. When the [pole] was increased in length to 55-inches c. 1983, they used much stronger stainless steel tubing for the pole instead.
I am also sure your [combinded sidelight lamp] can be reconditioned. I use BRASSO metal polish to restore dull plastic Light lenses.
Tom W Clark posted 11-23-2011 03:20 PM ET (US)
[Gave the moderator advice--please contact the moderator via email to impart advice. Thank you--jimh]
It is perfectly true that the stern light being discussed here is a white all-round light, but that does not mean "white all-round light" is a better descriptor. A "white all-round light" is not necessarily a stern light nor it is necessarily used in the stern of a vessel. "Stern light" and "white all-round light" are neither synonymous nor mutually exclusive.
Instead of whipping out your brackets and dragging this further dans la merde, let's help Phillip and Butch find what they need, shall we?
Tohsgib posted 11-23-2011 03:37 PM ET (US)
I would agree that the $100 sternwhiteall-roundlamplight from Specialty is the way to go. Now to find that thingamadoohickeywong cap that screws down to hold that sternwhiteall-roundlamplight in place.
Tom W Clark posted 11-23-2011 03:53 PM ET (US)
Nick -- Whaler used to sell a replacement plastic split washer for $3 if you needed one, but in 2008 they stopped offering it by itself.
If you need an OE split washer you have to buy the upper light holder, the knurled nut and the split washer together as a package. That costs about $50 now.
Somebody in the plastic injection molding business needs to crank out a batch of these split washers for the tens of thousands of old Whalers that are still out there.
jimh posted 11-23-2011 10:19 PM ET (US)
Tom--I like to use proper names for things. Why perpetuate mistakes in nomenclature? It seems like promoting a mediocracy.
jimh posted 11-23-2011 10:21 PM ET (US)
That clamp fitting [and split washer] that Boston Whaler used is exactly like the clamp fittings used on a lot of classic microphone stands. You might find the replacement part from a music store that sells PA equipment.
dscew posted 11-23-2011 11:06 PM ET (US)
[Changed TOPIC. Please don't enter a discussion only to recommend it be stopped. Discussions stop when the participants are done. If you want to stop a discussion, don't participate.--jimh. P.S. Try to sleep in on Holidays.]
dscew posted 11-24-2011 05:22 AM ET (US)
[Changed TOPIC. Began discussion about the moderator, how the website operates, what opinions others might have. Please, stick to boating. Please to do not derail discussions by suggesting they be moved to other websites, complaining about your host here, and ascribing your opinoins to all readers. --jimh]
Jefecinco posted 11-24-2011 11:37 AM ET (US)
Tom--Great information. Thanks.
Butch
Jefecinco posted 11-24-2011 07:35 PM ET (US)
Specialty Marine looks like a great resource. It's now bookmarked!
Butch
Tom W Clark posted 11-25-2011 08:56 PM ET (US)
It is very frustrating to have all the original hardware for holding the stern light of a small classic Whaler but to not have the very simple plastic split ring that makes it secure. It is an easy part to loose over the years.
It would be wonderful if such a part were available from a source outside the marine hardware world. Jim's idea of finding a microphone stand manufacturer or retailer who offers this type of replacement part is very good.
If only there were somebody reading this who was familiar with audio equipment and knew where to buy it, they could be a hero to the small classic Whaler owners here by finding a source for this simple little part.
The diameter of the stern light pole of the small classic Whalers is 3/4".
jimh posted 11-25-2011 11:30 PM ET (US)
The problem with microphone stands as a source is the need for the microphone stand to be a classic or vintage microphone stand, that is, an older type of microphone stand that uses the same diameter tubing as the Boston Whaler navigation lamp. Most of the more recently made microphone stands use smaller diameter tubing.
The old stands used a heavy round cast base. Most of the modern stands use a little folding tripod base, and those types won't be suitable as a hardware source for navigation lamps.
Here is one possible source, but I can't guarantee this hardware will be a direct replacement:
http://www.fullcompass.com/brand/ATL/Replacement-Service-Parts.html
jimh posted 11-25-2011 11:39 PM ET (US)
Or perhaps this page shows more detail:
http://www.atlassound.com/Product.aspx?id=1533&pI=1528
Tom W Clark posted 11-27-2011 07:27 PM ET (US)
Thanks for the good lead Jim. Unfortunately, that particular slip ring is much taller than the one used on Whaler stern lights and not bevelled like the Whaler parts is.
You would also have to buy the whole clutch kit to get it when all we need is the plastic split ring.
contender posted 11-27-2011 07:52 PM ET (US)
I know it would be a pain, but has any one tried to make their own/one out of PVC? I think a 3/4 would work, I would cut the pipe to length, bevel, then do the split, may have to cut a piece out for the split so it would get tight....Just a though...
jimh posted 11-27-2011 10:38 PM ET (US)
If the split ring is the right part, perhaps someone could contact Atlas Sound and see if they'd sell just the ring. A purchase of a small quantity of rings could be a great source for replacement parts for other owners.
I actually seem to recall that on my SPORT 15 the clutch was missing the ring and I found a suitable one in an old parts drawer at work, probably from old microphone stands.
Jefecinco posted 11-28-2011 09:53 AM ET (US)
Since Specialty Marine sells the assemblies perhaps they would supply the rings in a sufficient quantity to make shipping and handling worth the effort?
Ace Hardware stores used to sell assorted sizes of malleable packing rings for use in various faucets. I don't recall any that were beveled, but due to their malleability it is possible they would conform to the required shape when installed. A sharp Exacto knife or razor blade could be used to cut the ring as needed.
I've not yet purchased a replacement light assembly for my 13 or I would try it. For a few cents and a little time it may be worth the effort.
They would not have a long life but at a couple of dollars per dozen may be a good value assuming Ace continues to stock them.
I'll certainly carefully safeguard my new ring when I get it.
Butch
frontier posted 11-28-2011 04:05 PM ET (US)
Here's what works for me:
Go to Ace Hardware and the Hillman small parts bins section.
Buy a Nylon "Natural Furniture Tip" 1" (3/4" ID) 18 GA round for 55 cents. (Hillman part number 59291-A).
Cut the top off just under the lip with a hacksaw and cut the leftover ring once vertically.
Bevel with a file or bench grinder on both edges.
Takes about 5 mintues to make.
crabby posted 11-28-2011 06:30 PM ET (US)
A hose washer (preferably the o-ring style, not the flat style) of the proper diameter works very well as a replacement for the split ring.
Tohsgib posted 11-28-2011 09:04 PM ET (US)
I use a Trojan French Tickler on mine...nice fit!
L H G posted 12-03-2011 07:15 PM ET (US)
I am using one of Specialty's 55" stern lights on my 1979 Montauk. Because of the tall Merc L6 and a Forward Shelter,
I needed the taller light pole. You can see it here:
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v429/lgoltz/Montauk%2017/?action=view& current=Scan_Pic0022.jpg
The Specialty pole is SS, and made in China, but seems to be pretty good heavy duty quality. It is fairly heavy. The outside diameter tolerance must be a touch large, since it fits tightly in the original Whaler
stern brackets. So tight as a matter of fact, that the fiber compression ring insert is not even needed, and it has to be twisted in and out.
I would not have a problem recommending it to any user however. I think it was $110 delivered.
Jefecinco posted 12-04-2011 09:36 AM ET (US)
Wow, that is one very tall looking light. It looks a little out of proportion for the boat but it's height should be a plus when it comes to visibility.
Beautiful boat, by the way.
Butch

Hop to:

Contact Us | RETURN to ContinuousWave Top Page

Powered by: Ultimate Bulletin Board, Freeware Version 2000
Purchase our Licensed Version- which adds many more features!
© Infopop Corporation (formerly Madrona Park, Inc.), 1998 - 2000.

Author	Topic: Replacement All-round Lamp
phillips407	posted 11-22-2011 12:54 PM ET (US) The 1988 13 [Boston Whaler boat] I'm working on has a two piece SS bracket on [the Starboard] inside of transom near wiring for a [white all-round lamp]--but no lamp fixture. The top bracket has male threads measured at 1-1/4-inch dia. on top with a vertical hole thru inside. Directly below that hole, about 2-inch down is the second bracket with a 3/4-inch vertical hole which lines up with the upper hole. It's where I would expect the [lamp pole] to be, but I've not seen a [lamp] that would screw on to such a fitting. Does anyone know of such a [lamp] and where I might find a replacement? Thanks for any help you can give me. phillip
Tom W Clark	posted 11-22-2011 01:01 PM ET (US) Your local Boston Whaler dealer can order you a replacement [white all-round lamp] for your boat. It is not an off-the-shelf pole [lamp] like you might find at the local chandlery, though it is made for Whaler by Perko. Do not use an aluminum pole [lamp fixture] from the boat store; it will seize up in the fitting in no time. If you do not have a good local dealer I suggest you call Sue Lodel at Twin Cities Marine, a very long time Boston Whaler dealer. Sue is most knowledgeable and helpful and will ship to you anywhere. http://twincitiesmarine.com/
jimh	posted 11-22-2011 01:15 PM ET (US) A 13-foot Boston Whaler does not have a sternlight. It shows a white all-round light. You need a new lamp and pole fixture for a white all-round light.
Tohsgib	posted 11-22-2011 01:54 PM ET (US) Not to mention the cap that screws onto the threads which tightens down the [all-round lamp] you will be purchasing. Prepare for major sphincter pain when you get the quote.
jimh	posted 11-22-2011 10:13 PM ET (US) The light is what you see. The light comes from the lamp. A sternlight is a specialized navigation signal that is shown over a limited arc from the stern of a boat, in combination with a masthead light. Most small boats do not show a sternlight; they show a white all-round light.
Tom W Clark	posted 11-22-2011 10:26 PM ET (US) [Gave an essay on the difference between sternlights and stern lights.]
Tom W Clark	posted 11-23-2011 09:55 AM ET (US) We were talking about a stern light, not a sternlight. While the stern light in a 13 foot Whaler is not really stern (nor is it genial either) it is a light that is in the stern of the 13 foot Whaler, which is why Boston Whaler itself refers to this light as a stern light. However, I do not think arguing about what to call the white all-round lamp on a pole in the stern of a 13 foot Whaler is particularly helpful to Phillip when all he is trying to do is procure the damn thing. Perhaps we could not drag this any further into the weeds and simply help Phillip find the stern light that he needs.
jimh	posted 11-23-2011 12:05 PM ET (US) Tom--Please stop confusing people with inappropriate names for navigation lamps. Your suggestion that readers will recognize the difference between "stern light" and "sternlight" is highly speculative. CONTINUOUSWAVE tries to use the proper names for maritime devices. Next you will want to call the combined sidelights the "bow light." I can't have CONTINUOUSWAVE sinking to such bad usage.
jimh	posted 11-23-2011 12:08 PM ET (US) It's a slippery slope, and soon we'll be talking about "bumpers" instead of fenders, and "ropes" instead of lines.
phillips407	posted 11-23-2011 12:32 PM ET (US) Sorry for all the confusion, but I learned from it and did find that the standard "all-round" light at the back end of the whaler indeed comes at a "puckering" cost. I also learned that Sue Lodel at Twin Cities is a very helpful and gracious person. I now must decide if to "restore" the light or go to a much less expensive "fix". Thank you all for your help. This is by far the BEST forum I've ever participated in. Happy Thanksgiving to all---phillip
jimh	posted 11-23-2011 01:32 PM ET (US) Another fine point of navigation rules is the requirement for vertical separation between the sidelights and the all-round light, but, if you are renovating an older boat--which was in compliance at the time it was built--you can renovate to the original lighting. Otherwise you want a 1-meter vertical separation between the sidelights and the all-round light. That can result in a somewhat awkwardly tall lamp pole on a small boat.
Jefecinco	posted 11-23-2011 02:37 PM ET (US) The stern all-round white light on my 1981 13 Sport is in need of eventual replacement and does not appear to be original. Should it be the same light as the one under discussion on this thread? If it is not the same would you please tell me what the correct light would be and a possible source? The forward bi-color navigation light appears to be original and looks as though it can be reconditioned. The lenses appear to be intact but you never know until the light is disassembled. None of the lights operate and I'd like to have them operational though I doubt I'll ever need to turn them on. Thank you. Butch
Tom W Clark	posted 11-23-2011 03:20 PM ET (US) Phillip -- What was the price Sue quoted? The last time I asked her I think it was up to about $225. Specialty Marine offers a knock-off that looks pretty good. I've never handled one myself but for the potential price savings, it might be worth investigating: http://www.specialtymarine.com/ Boston-Whaler-Classic-Stern-Light-Anchor-Light-p127.html Yes, your 1988 Sport 13 would require the 55 inch tall [white all-round light] to meet the strict rule of having the [white all-round light] one meter above the [sidelights]. Butch, your 1981 would have originally had a 36-inch-tall [lamp] but upgrading to the 55-inch-tall [lamp] will certainly make your boat easier to see at night. In 1981 the pole of the [lamp] was made of chrome plated brass. When the [pole] was increased in length to 55-inches c. 1983, they used much stronger stainless steel tubing for the pole instead. I am also sure your [combinded sidelight lamp] can be reconditioned. I use BRASSO metal polish to restore dull plastic Light lenses.
Tom W Clark	posted 11-23-2011 03:20 PM ET (US) [Gave the moderator advice--please contact the moderator via email to impart advice. Thank you--jimh] It is perfectly true that the stern light being discussed here is a white all-round light, but that does not mean "white all-round light" is a better descriptor. A "white all-round light" is not necessarily a stern light nor it is necessarily used in the stern of a vessel. "Stern light" and "white all-round light" are neither synonymous nor mutually exclusive. Instead of whipping out your brackets and dragging this further dans la merde, let's help Phillip and Butch find what they need, shall we?
Tohsgib	posted 11-23-2011 03:37 PM ET (US) I would agree that the $100 sternwhiteall-roundlamplight from Specialty is the way to go. Now to find that thingamadoohickeywong cap that screws down to hold that sternwhiteall-roundlamplight in place.
Tom W Clark	posted 11-23-2011 03:53 PM ET (US) Nick -- Whaler used to sell a replacement plastic split washer for $3 if you needed one, but in 2008 they stopped offering it by itself. If you need an OE split washer you have to buy the upper light holder, the knurled nut and the split washer together as a package. That costs about $50 now. Somebody in the plastic injection molding business needs to crank out a batch of these split washers for the tens of thousands of old Whalers that are still out there.
jimh	posted 11-23-2011 10:19 PM ET (US) Tom--I like to use proper names for things. Why perpetuate mistakes in nomenclature? It seems like promoting a mediocracy.
jimh	posted 11-23-2011 10:21 PM ET (US) That clamp fitting [and split washer] that Boston Whaler used is exactly like the clamp fittings used on a lot of classic microphone stands. You might find the replacement part from a music store that sells PA equipment.
dscew	posted 11-23-2011 11:06 PM ET (US) [Changed TOPIC. Please don't enter a discussion only to recommend it be stopped. Discussions stop when the participants are done. If you want to stop a discussion, don't participate.--jimh. P.S. Try to sleep in on Holidays.]
dscew	posted 11-24-2011 05:22 AM ET (US) [Changed TOPIC. Began discussion about the moderator, how the website operates, what opinions others might have. Please, stick to boating. Please to do not derail discussions by suggesting they be moved to other websites, complaining about your host here, and ascribing your opinoins to all readers. --jimh]
Jefecinco	posted 11-24-2011 11:37 AM ET (US) Tom--Great information. Thanks. Butch
Jefecinco	posted 11-24-2011 07:35 PM ET (US) Specialty Marine looks like a great resource. It's now bookmarked! Butch
Tom W Clark	posted 11-25-2011 08:56 PM ET (US) It is very frustrating to have all the original hardware for holding the stern light of a small classic Whaler but to not have the very simple plastic split ring that makes it secure. It is an easy part to loose over the years. It would be wonderful if such a part were available from a source outside the marine hardware world. Jim's idea of finding a microphone stand manufacturer or retailer who offers this type of replacement part is very good. If only there were somebody reading this who was familiar with audio equipment and knew where to buy it, they could be a hero to the small classic Whaler owners here by finding a source for this simple little part. The diameter of the stern light pole of the small classic Whalers is 3/4".
jimh	posted 11-25-2011 11:30 PM ET (US) The problem with microphone stands as a source is the need for the microphone stand to be a classic or vintage microphone stand, that is, an older type of microphone stand that uses the same diameter tubing as the Boston Whaler navigation lamp. Most of the more recently made microphone stands use smaller diameter tubing. The old stands used a heavy round cast base. Most of the modern stands use a little folding tripod base, and those types won't be suitable as a hardware source for navigation lamps. Here is one possible source, but I can't guarantee this hardware will be a direct replacement: http://www.fullcompass.com/brand/ATL/Replacement-Service-Parts.html
jimh	posted 11-25-2011 11:39 PM ET (US) Or perhaps this page shows more detail: http://www.atlassound.com/Product.aspx?id=1533&pI=1528
Tom W Clark	posted 11-27-2011 07:27 PM ET (US) Thanks for the good lead Jim. Unfortunately, that particular slip ring is much taller than the one used on Whaler stern lights and not bevelled like the Whaler parts is. You would also have to buy the whole clutch kit to get it when all we need is the plastic split ring.
contender	posted 11-27-2011 07:52 PM ET (US) I know it would be a pain, but has any one tried to make their own/one out of PVC? I think a 3/4 would work, I would cut the pipe to length, bevel, then do the split, may have to cut a piece out for the split so it would get tight....Just a though...
jimh	posted 11-27-2011 10:38 PM ET (US) If the split ring is the right part, perhaps someone could contact Atlas Sound and see if they'd sell just the ring. A purchase of a small quantity of rings could be a great source for replacement parts for other owners. I actually seem to recall that on my SPORT 15 the clutch was missing the ring and I found a suitable one in an old parts drawer at work, probably from old microphone stands.
Jefecinco	posted 11-28-2011 09:53 AM ET (US) Since Specialty Marine sells the assemblies perhaps they would supply the rings in a sufficient quantity to make shipping and handling worth the effort? Ace Hardware stores used to sell assorted sizes of malleable packing rings for use in various faucets. I don't recall any that were beveled, but due to their malleability it is possible they would conform to the required shape when installed. A sharp Exacto knife or razor blade could be used to cut the ring as needed. I've not yet purchased a replacement light assembly for my 13 or I would try it. For a few cents and a little time it may be worth the effort. They would not have a long life but at a couple of dollars per dozen may be a good value assuming Ace continues to stock them. I'll certainly carefully safeguard my new ring when I get it. Butch
frontier	posted 11-28-2011 04:05 PM ET (US) Here's what works for me: Go to Ace Hardware and the Hillman small parts bins section. Buy a Nylon "Natural Furniture Tip" 1" (3/4" ID) 18 GA round for 55 cents. (Hillman part number 59291-A). Cut the top off just under the lip with a hacksaw and cut the leftover ring once vertically. Bevel with a file or bench grinder on both edges. Takes about 5 mintues to make.
crabby	posted 11-28-2011 06:30 PM ET (US) A hose washer (preferably the o-ring style, not the flat style) of the proper diameter works very well as a replacement for the split ring.
Tohsgib	posted 11-28-2011 09:04 PM ET (US) I use a Trojan French Tickler on mine...nice fit!
L H G	posted 12-03-2011 07:15 PM ET (US) I am using one of Specialty's 55" stern lights on my 1979 Montauk. Because of the tall Merc L6 and a Forward Shelter, I needed the taller light pole. You can see it here: http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v429/lgoltz/Montauk%2017/?action=view& current=Scan_Pic0022.jpg The Specialty pole is SS, and made in China, but seems to be pretty good heavy duty quality. It is fairly heavy. The outside diameter tolerance must be a touch large, since it fits tightly in the original Whaler stern brackets. So tight as a matter of fact, that the fiber compression ring insert is not even needed, and it has to be twisted in and out. I would not have a problem recommending it to any user however. I think it was $110 delivered.
Jefecinco	posted 12-04-2011 09:36 AM ET (US) Wow, that is one very tall looking light. It looks a little out of proportion for the boat but it's height should be a plus when it comes to visibility. Beautiful boat, by the way. Butch