Lightning strike

puffcard · **Posted:** 11 May 2013 09:23

I just finished repairing the last lightning strike by installing the new stereo I got for my birthday and two days later the boat was struck by lightning again. Believe the lighting hit the VHF antenna and mast. The mast is grounded thru the #6AWG solid conductor to the engine and hull fittings. Here is what I found so far:

VHF Metz Manta-6 whip antenna is missing and VHF radio not working.
Rule Bilge Pump was not working, I troubleshot the problem and found the Ultra Jr Pump Switch was bad. I replaced it so I could have a working bilge pump.
Signet Wind Instruments not working (not powering up)
20Amp Ray Jefferson Battery Charger is not working
Xantrex XAR Voltage regulator not working, alternator seems ok, Fuse was blown, replaced still OOC
New Boat’s Kenwood KDC-255U radio, inspection showed two fuses were vaporized
Garmin GPS17 GPS Antenna not outputting navigation data
Two LED interior reading lights OOC
AutoHelm seems weak.

I'm on the fence to make a claim, with insurance companies looking for reasons to drop people, I'm with BOAT US and never have made a claim in 18 years and getting the good boater discount. I'm thinking of adding a ground plane or the Forespar "Lightning Master" Static Dissipater. Definitely adding surge protectors and/or Dissipaters.

solen · **Joined:** 17 Sep 2009 00:00 **Posts:** 34

Plan to make a claim, and don't close/settle for a while yet.

With all your electronics out you could have not only a sea of obsolete gadgets but also hull perforation. This happened some years ago to a friend who was kind enough to have a 5 foot taller mast (so we didn't get hit).

All the electronics was either broken or less reliable. While he did notice anything immediately it turned out that the hull was perforated around the mast and had to be sealed and re-coated.

Lightning will cause miniature pinholes (pretty much invisible) where it passes through the hull or loosen fittings.

Have it checked out by the best/pickiest hull surveyor you can find.

Alex
caretaker of Solen

ByronH · **Joined:** 27 Aug 2008 09:24 **Posts:** 40

I concur - file the claim. U.S. Boat insurance is first rate and I doubt that you will lose your coverage. I also agree that you should not close the claim right away. 2 years later, I am still discovering problems - latest is an electrical problem related to a lightening strike. Not suggesting that you wait 2 years to close, but take your time.

puffcard · **Posted:** 02 Jul 2013 18:18

I am filing a claim this was one bad hit. Just did the rig inspection. It actually melted the anchor light base and blew the VHF antenna to pieces.

Tartan37.com

Lightning strike

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