Overview

The TACO Marine F38-6810B-1 is a 4-inch rub rail mounted LED navigation light set for boats that need port and starboard running lights without adding fixtures on top of the deck. It places the red and green sidelights into the rub rail area, helping keep bow space cleaner and sightlines more open while still giving the boat proper navigation lighting.

This set is rated for 12-14VDC systems and draws 0.6 amps at 12V. The lights are certified for ABYC and USCG-approved 2 NM use, with a 112.5-degree unobstructed view for sidelights. The housing layout fits popular 3/4-inch insert profiles and uses a 4-inch polished stainless-steel joiner cover with an anodized aluminum heat sink behind the LEDs.

The IP68 water-resistant rating makes it a practical fit for exposed bow locations where spray, washdowns, and rain are part of normal use. It is a good match for bay boats, center consoles, and other small to mid-size powerboats or sailboats where a low-profile navigation light location is preferred.

Key features

• Rub rail mounted port and starboard LED light set for a cleaner bow layout and fewer deck-mounted obstructions
• Certified for ABYC and USCG-approved 2 NM sidelights, with a 112.5-degree unobstructed view
• Fits popular 3/4-inch rub rail insert profiles and uses a 4-inch joiner cover
• Runs on low-voltage 12-14VDC boat electrical systems with a 0.6 amp draw at 12V
• Sold as a pair with one 3-watt red port light and one 2-watt green starboard light
• IP68 water-resistant rating for exposed marine locations subject to spray and washdowns
• Heavy gauge polished stainless-steel joiner cover helps the lights blend into the rub rail assembly
• Anodized aluminum heat sink helps manage LED heat during operation
• Deutsch plug connection supports a cleaner electrical hookup during installation
• Requires #8 stainless-steel fasteners, which are not included

Installation and fit

This light set is intended for installation at the rub rail, rather than on the deck or bow cap. Before ordering, compare the boat’s rub rail insert profile and available mounting space with the 4-inch width and 13/16-inch height of the light assembly. The 3/4-inch insert profile fit is important, especially on boats where the rub rail shape leaves limited room for hardware and wiring.

The installation should place the red light on the port side and the green light on the starboard side, with clear sightlines forward and to the side. Because navigation lights are safety equipment, mounting angle, wiring protection, polarity, and fastener selection should be checked carefully before final assembly.

Electrical and system integration

The lights work with 12V boat systems in the 12-14VDC range. They are not NMEA 2000 or network devices, so integration is handled through the vessel’s standard navigation light circuit, switch panel, and protected wiring. The low current draw helps keep the load modest on small boat electrical systems.

For saltwater use, wiring connections should be kept protected from standing water and routed so they are not pinched by the rub rail, deck joint, or fasteners. Use marine wiring practices and circuit protection appropriate for the vessel.

Materials and marine environment

The LED modules sit in a polished stainless-steel joiner cover with an anodized aluminum heat sink. This combination gives the set a finished look at the rub rail and helps with heat control behind the LEDs. The IP68 rating supports exposed placement where the bow may see spray, rain, and regular rinsing.

Routine care is simple: rinse the area with fresh water after saltwater use, avoid harsh cleaners on the polished cover, and inspect the fasteners and wiring during regular boat maintenance.

What’s included

• One 3-watt red port LED navigation light
• One 2-watt green starboard LED navigation light
• Installation instructions