[Rhodes22-list] Electricity Problems

[CarolN8 at aol.com]

OK, since I've come out of lurker mode I might as well ask a question. The 
last two times I've been out when there are storm clouds in the area, I have had 
a problem with static electricity building up in the boat. Both times, I have 
received pretty bad shocks. The first time was when I tried to start the 
motor (with an electric start). I thought I must have a short somewhere, so I 
unhooked both batteries but still got shocked every time I touched the motor. I 
was docked at the time, so I just went home. When I came back, it was sunny out 
and I had no problems. 

The next time it happened, there was a storm nearby (this happens frequently 
in Colorado) and I was out sailing. All of a sudden I started hearing a 
clicking sound coming off the forward stays. It was a steady and strong click. I 
immediately unhooked both batteries again, but it kept clicking. So I carefully 
hand-started the motor without touching the metal guard on the back (which was 
no easy feat) and went back to the docks. 
I've had this boat at the same marina for four years and this has never 
happened before. Anybody have any ideas on what I can do? It's pretty nerveracking!

Carol
s/v Painkiller