Is that right if DC negative, AC earth, engine body and all underwater metals are all connected together as a ground?

[Boater On Thames]

As the title mentioned, just found my boat all these 4 parts connect together when I using a multimeter check it. Is this the correct grounding wiring?

Thanks.

 

[Catalina36]

Prepare yourself for a long thread...

 

[Portofino]

Not necessarily.

 

[Seastoke]

Erm do you have a metal boat .

 

[vas]

Mine is also setup this way. So I'd dare a YES and go and hide...

 

[Seastoke]

Do you have a generator .

 

[BruceK]

Much argument but in short yes it can provided it is on RCD circuit breakers. The definitive requirements and further recommendations to do so are found in ISO 13297

 

[Boater On Thames]

Not metal hull. It is GRP hull.
Yes, I have a generator.

 

[superheat6k]

Yes this is right, but some do not like it, as it can cause other issues, mostly related to stray current corrosion (as opposed to galvanic corrosion which is quite different). It is now required practice both in the EU and USA to protect lives of swimmers and fallers in.

The best explanation I have found is within Nigel Calder's 'Boatowner's Mechanical and Electrical Manual'. Very few contributors on here will better his explanation.

 

[Boater On Thames]

Great. Thanks everyone.

 

[Bilgediver]

Mine is also setup this way. So I'd dare a YES and go and hide...

Don't forget your hard hat.