Wiring queries

[Guest]

As a newcomer to marine electrics with a 38 foot wooden motor sailer to rewire I would be grateful if anyone could advise on the following : 1. Is there such a thing as specialised marine grade wiring both 12 volt & mains, if so were can I get it ? 2. Am I right in thinking that all earths should be bonded to the engine earths and hence to the outside wet stuff. Should this bonding system also include sacrifical anodes ? 3. Can anyone recommend some laymans reading on the subjects (preferably on the internet). Many Thanks

 

[LORDNELSON]

It is worthwhile getting a copy of Index Marines Electrical Installation Equipment and Fluid Sensing Systems Catalogue. I believe their phone number is 01202 430149. I use (mainly) "The Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible" by John C. Payne; its a practical handbook for cruising sailors, some librarys have it.

 

[Guest]

Don't do anything before reading the marine electronice bible it tells you everything you want to know!! I would also say do a wiring diagram, preferably on computer which can then live on the boat. (no I I didn't write it but have the same job to do on a similar size sailing boat also in wood)

Roly, Voya Con Dios, Glasson, Lancaster

 

[ccscott49]

I have all earths for my 12\24 volt system insulated, that is to say my engines are not used as earth return, I believe in the corrosion scenario this is a safer way to go. For all 12\24 volt systems use "Tinned copper" cables and "crimp on connections" I beleive there is a book called the 12 volt bible os some such, which I've seen, and is a damn good book on the sublect! Mains electricity needs some careful thought, I do not have my 230 volt system earthed through the anodes or engines either, its totally independant of the DC side aswell, apart from the chargers, but thats my choice! some, I'm sure would say I'm wrong! Some good books will be available, try the PBO bookshop thingy!
By the way I have a wooden 57' motor sailer, so we are talking wood here.
<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1>Edited by ccscott49 on Wed Oct 24 21:19:57 2001 (server time).</FONT></P>

 

[Guest]

You should use tinned cable. This will prevent corrosion particularly where cables are exposed to salt water i.e. in the bilges or external wiring for nav lights etc. Look at www.power-store.com they carry Ancor boat cables. Nigel Calders book is a must if you are " doing it yourself ".