Adding more accessory switches for Bayliner 175BR

[jholbrook]

I have a 2005 Bayliner 175BR. I've started adding a few accessories (depth sounder, stereo, etc) and was originally thinking that I should maybe add a second 'switched' fuse panel that only works when the ignition is on. Then I was thinking that it would probably be better to actually wire the accessories to each of their own switches. Does anybody have a similar boat that has done this sort of thing? What sort of switches/panel did you use? Where did you mount it? Any other tricks, tips or suggestions?

I'm sure I won't need more than a few switches. I was thinking I might eventually add some LED lighting.

Any suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[seabob4]

Re: Adding more accessory switches for Bayliner 175BR

I've used these from Blue Seas, and they are available right here...http://www.iboats.com/6-Position-Ci...6290810--**********.427125196--view_id.730151

 

[jholbrook]

Re: Adding more accessory switches for Bayliner 175BR

Thanks for the response. Has anybody installed something like this on their 175BR? Where would/did you mount it? Any pics?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding more accessory switches for Bayliner 175BR

So you just presented us with three scenarios -- which one did you settle on?

1) Key on (you already have this capability)
2) Key on activating separate switches
3) Separate switches - key off or on.

Be aware that the accessory feed from the engine harness is not designed to handle a large amount of power. It is priimarily intended to power the instrument panel and a few low current draw accessories. That's why the boat has a second pair of wires from the battery to the fuse panel (usually #8 or #10 wires). The fuse panel therefore is powered all the time unless the system has a MASTER power switch at the helm.

Since a fish finder is on your list of accessories, you DO NOT want that powered only when the key is ON -- especially if you have an I/O. This means the engine ignitiion system would be energized and sucking a fair amount of current. Think this through a little more carefully. For some reason people think more switches are better. In reality -- most accessories have an ON/OFF switch. If you are forgetful, add a MASTER switch to the boat side harness.