Overview

The Hella Marine 280801001 is a surface-mount spacer for Apelo A1 and Apelo A2 underwater lights that lets you place the lights where they look right while routing the cable to a more practical entry point.

Instead of drilling a cable hole straight through the transom behind the light, the spacer allows side cable entry so the wiring can be routed to an above-water location or anywhere you have better internal access. It also adds a 5° mounting surface that can be rotated in any direction to fine-tune the light aim and help compensate for a transom angle.

Key features

• Compatible with Apelo A1 and Apelo A2 underwater light models
• Surface-mount spacer that supports side cable entry for flexible cable routing
• Helps avoid drilling directly behind the light when the best wiring path is offset
• 5° angled surface can be oriented as needed to tweak beam direction and offset transom angle
• Useful when nearby hardware like trim tabs or an outboard could block part of the light output

Installation and setup

This spacer mounts on a flat surface on the transom. Before drilling, dry-fit the light and spacer together so you can confirm the side cable exit lines up with the cable route inside the boat and the 5° angle is pointing where you want the beam.

On transoms with tight access, plan the cable run first and pick a side exit that keeps the connection away from hard bends and chafe points. Seal any penetrations and support the cable so vibration does not work on the wiring over time.

Compatibility and fit

This part is an accessory for the Apelo A1 and A2 underwater lights and does not change the light’s electrical requirements or control method. It changes the mounting geometry at the transom so spacing, cable routing, and beam direction are easier to dial in.

Use cases on board

This spacer makes sense for refits where the cleanest wiring path is not directly behind the fixture, or for multi-light installs where you want consistent spacing without being forced into awkward cable holes. It is also handy when you need to aim slightly away from an obstruction near the transom.

Maintenance and care

During routine haul-outs, check that the fasteners remain tight and that sealant lines are intact. If you remove a light for service, inspect the side cable path and re-seal as needed before the boat goes back in the water.