
security in the owner or operator, leading to less-than-prudent actions when lightning threatens.
3.
Lightning systems are "out of sight, out of mind," except when lightning threatens. Generally, they
are not checked and maintained on a regular basis. A defect in the system (i.e., a break in a
ground line) could - in some cases - increase the risk of personal harm, as well as damage to the
yacht, as compared to a yacht with no protection. The reason for this is that many lightning
protection systems distribute the high voltage throughout the yacht before allowing it to exit
through the ground.
4.
It is impossible for Catalina Yachts to control changes which you, the owner, may make to the
yacht, which could affect lightning protection system.
You, the owner, must decide whether or not you wish to equip your yacht with lightning protection and, if
so, the method of doing it. The following suggestions and comments are also offered:
1.
Keep the system as simple as possible. This will facilitate both installation and
inspection/maintenance.
2.
The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) recommends straight-line wire runs. This is virtually
impossible within the yacht. For grounding the shrouds: A battery cable, which clips to each
shroud and extends outside the yacht to the water, can minimize the number of bends required.
This method has the added advantage of keeping the power surge outside the boat and allowing
easy, routine inspection. The obvious disadvantage is that the clip on cables is not a permanent
installation and may not be in place when an unexpected lightning strike occurs.
3.
Use only top quality materials and go oversize wherever possible.
4.
Keep all permanent attachment points and connections where they are readily available for
inspection, yet protected from damage or inadvertent disconnection.
By far, the most important consideration regarding lightning is observing common sense safety
precautions when lightning threatens. The key considerations are listed in the American Boat and Yacht
Council (ABYC) publication SECTION E-4 which is enclosed in your owners package for your reference.
Page 35 of 35
Catalina 22 Owner's Manual for 1987
7/21/2010
http://www.catalina22.org/manuals/mnl87/handbook.htm