Sadler 34 replacement switch panels

[kalanka]

Does anyone have advice for replacing the two switch panels on a Sadler 34, 1988 vintage.

Might it be possible to source like for like replacements? If not, any recommendations for substitutes?

The old panels have automotive fuses - should I go for circuit breakers?

Thanks

 

[Stemar]

I made my own switch panels for both Jissel and Jazzcat. They looked pretty good and allowed for a lot of customisation, One thing I would add, if you haven't got it already is a voltmeter for the domestic batteries, but beware the small digital ones, some of them only read in ).3v increments.

I'd go either for circuit breakers or a blade-type fuse box. You can get ones with an LED across the fuse which lights for a missing or blown fuse, which could help on a dark night, though my only blown fuse that wasn't a self-inflicted idiocy was when the galley water pump died and took its fuse with it. BTW, at the risk of egg sucking lessons, go battery - main fuse - heavy wire to fuse box - individual fuse - switch - gizmo. I also found it useful to have just about everything but the bilge pumps going through a master switch on the panel, that way, when we leave the boat for a few hours, one switch turns everything off.

 

[Concerto]

Plenty to choose from here.
Electric Switch Panels in 12V and 24V

 

[Tranona]

Doubt you will get direct replacements and you may well find as with most 30+ year old boats you need more circuits and probably an upgrade in wiring.

Here axoncontrol.co.uk has probably the most comprehensive range of pre wired panels using good quality switches and breakers or fuses. There is nothing really to choose between the 2types and I used a fused one because the size fitted with the panel lid layout I wanted to use as in the photo. I chose 16 way which is fine for my relatively simple boat bit you may find you need a 20 way depending on how much individual bits of equipment you have. In my case I grouped navigation related circuits together in one switch as I don't have an NMRA 2000 network.

 

[vyv_cox]

Does anyone have advice for replacing the two switch panels on a Sadler 34, 1988 vintage.

Might it be possible to source like for like replacements? If not, any recommendations for substitutes?

The old panels have automotive fuses - should I go for circuit breakers?

Thanks

I left the main panel as it was but added a new row of switches and fuses below. I redesigned the subsidiary panel and had it cut by a local plastics company (In Wrexham)

 

[Stemar]

Think about how many switches you really need. Do you need individual switches for log, sounder and GPS like Tranona's illustration, or would a single Instruments switch be enough. Could the compass light be included in nav lights, and so on.