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Moving the battery switch

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tomh
1st Mate

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USA
83 Posts

Initially Posted - 04/11/2014 : 04:51:29

I want to install a new circuit breaker panel so that I can eventually add circuits and get the electrical system away from the sink. The battery wires now run through the fuel locker and I want to reroute them so that I'm not making a connection with the outboard around the fuel container.

While I'm sure that others have done this, I'm curious about where you relocated the panel. Also, the battery switch has been in the same place since 1978. Am I too concerned about making an electrical connection inside of the fuel locker?

Tom

1978 C25 "Karma" #790
Toledo Beach Marina
LaSalle, Michigan

Edited by - on

redeye
Master Marine Consultant

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3474 Posts

Response Posted - 04/11/2014 : 05:13:34

Sounds admirable... I added a panel to a homemade box on a previous boat and loved it. The front panel was hinged to swing open to make it easy to work on. ( ok a cigar box ) The current location on my catalina is a real pain to get to.

Oh wait.. now I remember .. the switches were in the cigar box...

Edited by - redeye on 04/11/2014 09:24:50

Voyager
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
5231 Posts

Response Posted - 04/11/2014 : 06:39:11

In your '78, the fender locker and fuel locker are all one continuous space under the port cockpit seat that backs up to the electrical panel. What was Catalina thinking!!! A few years later, they closed off the fuel storage area and made it part of the cockpit deck as a safety measure.
The worst-case scenario is that a few ounces of gas spill into the 78-style locker on a hot sunny day, the gas evaporates at the precise air-gas mixture, someone flips a switch and KABOOM! Dorades or scuppers help, but not always.
There have been many threads about glassing in a separator for the fuel tank, but apparently it is not a trivial job.
Some have placed the panel on the facia under the starboard settee in front of the battery compartment, but in my case I'd be likely to hit it with my foot while walking by.
Another concern for me is the shore power connection and 110 VAC 15A circuit breaker - same issue.

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OLarryR
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3367 Posts

Response Posted - 04/11/2014 : 10:35:00

My battery switch is on the sidewall, starboard side of the cockpit with wires from the outboard laying under the quarterberth area. I still have my original switch panel which is located below the steps but due to the need to add addl loads/switches and the desire to be able to switch on the nav and steaming lights without leaving the cockpit, I installed a new switch panel in the wall just in front and under the sink. Addl photos and description is on my website.

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The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.