TSB240
Well-Known Member
It seems a long time ago that I wanted to add a remote to my autopilot. My OCD kicked in and I had to rewire the mess I found left by previous owners or their electrical equipment installers. There were no spare slots left in any of the original terminals for two more wires without doubling up.There is one 5 way "wago type" quick connector block hidden inside the RHS trunking for additional negative returns. I used this in preference to an exposed negative busbar.
The most important modification not showing is the increase in the size of cable required to link the top and bottom negative returns.
The most important cable removed and replaced is the 0.5mm flex used to connect a float switch to the bilge pump via a 15 amp trip ?.
I can't remember the number of times I have found a boat with an undersized negative return. This is caused by casual increased loading with additional equipment not fitted originally by the manufacturer or agent.
The new terminal arrangement with spare fuse terminals in place will make it a doddle to add the planned autopilot remote and AIS transponder.
I have used the expensive large blade fuses with an integral led that lights up if it blows making find a blown fuse a lot easier.
The double inlet/outlet terminals create additional capacity to connect individual cables and eliminate the easily overloaded plugs and sockets that were often fitted by the original boat builders to help speed build time.
All the old 2.5mm terminals have been upgraded to 4mm terminals.
Yes they are WAGO but other brands are just as suitable.
IMHO no brown or blue cables should ever be visible in a boat 12 v distribution panel.
