Light base

[Althepal78]

So I installed a new light base for the stern and for some reason my new light is not working. I also don't know how to figure out if there's any power going back there which I don't think there is but I don't know where to trace this wire. It's gray and white. Hopefully I got it on this picture so y'all can see

 

[Althepal78]

This is a better picture. I don't know if that is supposed to be not connected to anything because there is like three great and white cables or wires. I have no idea what I'm doing so I'm looking for any advice. Thank you

 

[Highliner]

Couple things - if your new light is LED try reversing the wires at the light. LED lights often need to be connected in the correct polarity where old incandescent lights did not.

the best way to troubleshoot is to use a multimeter (voltmeter) and test for voltage right at the two light wires. If you dont have one they are cheap and have a million uses on a boat. Set your meter for 20V DC and you should get about 12-13V at the light socket when its turned on. If you get voltage, theres an issue with the light. If not its somewhere upstream. check all of your fuses and breakers also.

 

[Althepal78]

Couple things - if your new light is LED try reversing the wires at the light. LED lights often need to be connected in the correct polarity where old incandescent lights did not.

the best way to troubleshoot is to use a multimeter (voltmeter) and test for voltage right at the two light wires. If you dont have one they are cheap and have a million uses on a boat. Set your meter for 20V DC and you should get about 12-13V at the light socket when its turned on. If you get voltage, theres an issue with the light. If not its somewhere upstream. check all of your fuses and breakers also.

I have to get a multimeter , but you think if I changed the wire layout it migh work I will try that thanks