replacing old cabling

[vas]

another odd Q from me...

As I'm slowly dismantling the lot in there, I've checked the wiring carefully.
It's 35yo, it's nicely tucked in canals, one set for 24V (blue-black) and another for 240 (normal 3 cols)
Now, plan is to replace them all.
HOWEVER, they look too good, soft, flexing nicely (dare to say better than equivalent cables I'd get from the shop right now!) and since they've being hidden from light and heat there doesn't seem to be a reason to replace the main part to the distribution box in the main cabin.
Obviously the runs from there to the sockets will be replaced (most of them) as the runs are different.

What does the panel think?
I insist it's not a money cut measure, it's pragmatic, they do look better quality than the new ones I'd get!

Obviously the main el.panel will be refurbished, relays and autos replaced to modern ones and wires checked. Further I'll add another secondary el.panel for the BMS and new wires will run from there to the 24V supplies (i.e. lights) around the craft.

Cheers

Vassilis

 

[sarabande]

the initial point of failure is often the joins, and where cables enter busbars, etc.


If you check those points and are still satisfied that no deterioration has occurred, then it's down to your approach to risk management.

One question about both sets of cabling. Have the loads increased since the system was designed and cabled umpty years ago ? That would provide a good reason for renewal.

 

[rafiki_]

Unless the skins are flakey and on the way out, if it ain't broke, don't fix. Sarabande makes a good point re capacity. There are many more electrical toys and goodies which are must have's on boats these days.

 

[Sneds]

Cable isn't expensive, I say do it

 

[vas]

thanks for the replies,

it's was merely testing the waters...
Now, to give the whole account:

3cabins:

each cabin will have 2X10A 220V supplies from an inverter (for running mob/camera/notebook/tablet chargers) loads are minimal and I'll use the original cabling
each cabin will have 1X16A 220V from shorepower/genny (that I'll get new cables for)
each cabin will have 1X24V supply in either USB format (with a converter to 5V) or simply a cigarette lighter socket. That I'll use the original 24V cabling

Lighting loads will be much less than originally designed for as i'm changing all lighting to leds. Furthermore, all lighting will go through the BMS so new cables have to be installed directly from the BMS panel (thinner gauge though)

So, there you go, that's the whole picture.

Further, will renew all flexing and moving cables to bilges for pumps etc.
will install new thin gauge cables for sensors/floaters/lightmeter/smoke and fire detectors etc.

Eventually will produce a el/mech drawing and post in the main rebuilt thread.

cheers

V.

 

[stuhaynes]

Cable isn't expensive, I say do it

If it's standard 'hard run' Chinese ****, it could prove very expensive. If you do replace make sure that the flex actually flexes, unlike much of the **** on many Chinese and far eastern electrical items. I bought a seduction hob, cable failed (cracking) in 3 months. I bought a '3' dongle, cable failed in 5 months. In the case of '3' Carphone whorehouse were simply not interested because the charger was an 'accessory'. Ended up soldering the thing back together. Ensure that CE regulations are adhered to and that the CE mark is genuine. What is our retail industry coming to? Anyone can print a label.... For the mods... there are times when the word Cr*p is justified, especially when lives are put at risk.

 

[rafiki_]

If it's standard 'hard run' Chinese ****, it could prove very expensive. If you do replace make sure that the flex actually flexes, unlike much of the **** on many Chinese and far eastern electrical items. I bought a seduction hob, cable failed (cracking) in 3 months. I bought a '3' dongle, cable failed in 5 months. In the case of '3' Carphone whorehouse were simply not interested because the charger was an 'accessory'. Ended up soldering the thing back together. Ensure that CE regulations are adhered to and that the CE mark is genuine. What is our retail industry coming to? Anyone can print a label.... For the mods... there are times when the word Cr*p is justified, especially when lives are put at risk.

Chinese adherence to process and standards is sketchy to say the least. Worst is their conformity of production, where they change specs to take cost out, and don't bother to check the consequences.