Let’s Talk About Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light isn’t just another piece of boating hardware; it’s a crucial safety component. Designed for power-driven vessels under 12 meters (39.4 feet), this light ensures your visibility to other boaters, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime navigation. Perko, a trusted name in marine lighting, offers this chrome-plated bi-color light as a replacement, promising reliability and adherence to safety standards.
Having spent years navigating inland lakes and coastal waters, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of reliable navigation lights. A faulty or dim light can create hazardous situations, turning a relaxing evening cruise into a nerve-wracking ordeal. When my old bi-color light started flickering intermittently, I knew it was time for a replacement, and the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light caught my eye.
Unboxing the Perko light, I was immediately struck by its solid construction. The chrome-plated zinc alloy housing felt substantial, and the red and green lenses were vibrant and clear. The inclusion of a flag staff socket was a welcome bonus, providing added functionality and a touch of traditional nautical flair.
I considered a few other options, including LED alternatives and lights from other manufacturers like Attwood. However, I chose the Perko primarily for its proven track record and ease of installation. I wanted a direct replacement that wouldn’t require extensive rewiring or modifications to my boat.
My first impression was positive. The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light exuded quality and looked like it could withstand the harsh marine environment. I was excited to get it installed and back on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light on my 18-foot center console fishing boat, a task that took less than 30 minutes using the existing wiring and mounting holes. My first test run was a late evening fishing trip on a local lake. Visibility was low, with a slight drizzle adding to the challenge.
The light performed flawlessly. Its one nautical mile visibility was sufficient for the relatively calm waters of the lake, and the distinct red and green colors were easily discernible from a distance. I felt significantly safer knowing that other boats could clearly see my position.
There were no issues or surprises. The Perko light worked exactly as expected, providing reliable illumination in adverse conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous fishing trips in both freshwater and saltwater environments, the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of corrosion or discoloration on the chrome plating. The lenses remain clear and bright.
Maintaining the light is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any salt spray or grime. I’ve replaced the bulbs once as a preventative measure, a standard maintenance task for incandescent lights.
Compared to my previous bi-color light, which suffered from intermittent failures and corroded contacts, the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light is a significant improvement. It provides consistent and reliable performance. It’s a testament to Perko’s commitment to quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light
Specifications
- Certified for replacement use only on power-driven vessels under 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length. This certification ensures the light meets specific safety standards for smaller boats.
- 1 NM (Nautical Mile) Visibility. This visibility range is adequate for most recreational boating situations, allowing other vessels to spot you from a safe distance.
- Chrome Plated Zinc Alloy with Flag Staff Socket. The chrome plating provides corrosion resistance, and the zinc alloy construction adds durability.
- Red and Green Lenses. These lenses adhere to standard navigation light colors.
- 12V Bulbs Included. The included bulbs make installation straightforward.
- Vertical Height: 1-5/8″. This compact height minimizes obstruction and keeps a low profile.
- Base Dimensions: 6-3/4 x 3-7/8″. These dimensions are important for ensuring compatibility with existing mounting locations.
- Socket ID: 3/4″. This specification refers to the diameter of the flag staff socket.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the light’s performance, durability, and ease of installation. The visibility range ensures safety, while the materials used dictate how well the light will withstand the marine environment.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light excels at its primary job: providing clear and reliable navigation lighting. The light is easily visible from a distance, and the red and green colors are distinct.
The only potential weakness is the use of incandescent bulbs. LED alternatives offer longer lifespan and lower power consumption.
Overall, the Perko light meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s a simple, reliable, and effective solution for boat navigation lighting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light boasts a classic and functional design. The chrome-plated finish adds a touch of elegance, while the compact size minimizes obstruction.
The light is relatively lightweight. This ensures it won’t add unnecessary weight to the bow of your boat.
Durability & Maintenance
Built with quality materials, the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light is designed to last. The chrome plating provides excellent corrosion resistance, and the zinc alloy construction is robust.
Maintenance is simple. Occasional cleaning and bulb replacements are all that’s required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light is a self-contained unit, so there are no specific customization options. However, you can choose to upgrade the incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs for improved efficiency and longevity.
The light is compatible with any standard 12V electrical system. It’s a common setup found on most small to medium-sized boats.
Pros and Cons of Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light
Pros
- Reliable and Consistent Performance. Provides clear and dependable navigation lighting.
- Durable Construction. Built with chrome-plated zinc alloy for corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation. A direct replacement for many existing bi-color lights.
- Includes Flag Staff Socket. Adds functionality and a traditional nautical touch.
- Trusted Brand. Perko is a well-respected name in marine lighting.
Cons
- Incandescent Bulbs: Less energy-efficient and shorter lifespan than LED alternatives.
- Limited Customization: No significant customization options are available.
Who Should Buy Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light?
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light is perfect for boat owners who need a reliable and easy-to-install replacement navigation light for their power-driven vessel under 12 meters. This includes recreational fishermen, casual boaters, and anyone who values safety and visibility on the water.
Anyone seeking advanced features like automatic dimming or integrated GPS should skip this product. They should invest in a more sophisticated lighting system.
A must-have modification is upgrading to LED bulbs. This will improve energy efficiency and extend bulb lifespan.
Conclusion on Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light
The Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light is a solid and dependable choice for boat owners needing a replacement navigation light. Its durable construction, ease of installation, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $79.49 is justified by the quality and reliability of the product. It provides essential safety for you and others on the water.
I would personally recommend the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light to anyone looking for a straightforward and effective navigation lighting solution. Don’t compromise on safety; ensure your boat is visible with the Perko 1218DP0CHR Bi Color Light. Upgrade your boat’s navigation lights today and enjoy safer, more confident boating experiences!