Classic AquaSport

Aquasport Mechanicals - things that need a wrench, screwdriver or multimeter => Electrical => Topic started by: JoseGaspar on June 06, 2009, 12:32:52 AM

Title: Rewiring my boat
Post by: JoseGaspar on June 06, 2009, 12:32:52 AM

Apologies if this topic might be a re-post (links to originals would be great).  I'm planning on getting rid of the rat's nest of wiring on my 25CCP and rewiring the whole boat.  I want to do it myself vs. paying someone to do it because I'm a "pride of ownership" type guy and a self-proclaim DIY.  I have some basic understanding of marine electronics, but I'm hoping some folks in this great community could steer me towards some good books/manuals to help me in my endeavor.  

Anyone with some suggestions on boat wiring books/manuals to help me with my project?

Thanx in advance.
JG

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: Capt. Bob on June 06, 2009, 08:07:23 AM

JG
Here's a place to start on theory and basics http://easyacdc.com/

This will give you an idea of how you probably will end up running your wiring http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=186986

You probably have a dedicated switch for different accessories such as bilge pump, nav. lights, anchor light, cockpit and compass lighting and probably more on your size boat. You'll want to wire each of those separate from one another (logical) with the power feed but you can still daisy chain the grounds.

Here's a book that may be helpful http://www.sheridanhouse.com/excerpts/underboatwiringexcerpt.html

And from the boat wire people http://www.cncphotoalbum.com/doityourself/wiring/wiring.htm

Boat wiring is fairly basic stuff, the key is to use the proper size wire and connections. Over time, the environment will damage unprotected splices and terminal ends.

Good luck and take some pics as you go. :thumright:

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: GoneFission on June 06, 2009, 10:33:03 AM

As with any job, the key is in the planning.  Think about where you want the batteries (under the console?), and where key loads might be (motor in the back, windlass at the bow?), then plan wire sizes, disconnects and protection (switches, fuses, breakers), and last comes wiring to individual components.  Color coding is always a great idea, so you know what a wire does when you see it in the future.  You can also label wiring at key locations and do the same thing.  

There are several threads on this forum with details and pics of others doing what you want to do.  Search around a bit and you can come up with a good plan!   :wink:

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: JoseGaspar on June 06, 2009, 11:05:02 PM

Guys, thanks for the replies and the great information.  I'm planning on keeping the dual battery set-up under the center console and duplicating the same basic set-up but with upgraded switches, marine-grade wiring, butt splicing and heat shrink on all connections.

Many Thanks,
JG

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: LilRichard on June 11, 2009, 10:44:10 PM

Jose - where are you located?  I may be able to save you some money on parts... I have some hookups - let me know.

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: JoseGaspar on June 12, 2009, 07:33:01 AM

I'm in Dunedin, Florida.

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: LilRichard on June 15, 2009, 08:39:51 PM

Lemmeknow what you need.  Shoot me a PM if interested.

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: JoseGaspar on June 17, 2009, 09:42:32 AM

LilRichard, thank you.  I'm currently in Europe and Asia on business, but will be back at the end of the month and can connect with you then.

Thanks,
JG

Title: Re: Rewiring my boat
Post by: billfish33 on July 15, 2009, 11:23:30 AM

http://shop.genuinedealz.com/Marine%20E ... %20Supply/ (http://shop.genuinedealz.com/Marine%20Electrical%20Supply/)

When I rewired my boat, I got most of my wire and terminals from them.