Need a box

[alldodge]

Been having issues with the marina watt hour meter reading high. Discussed the issue and they were open to testing, so I kept everything disconnected (OFF) and the next day the meter clocked up move watts. So I picked up a watt hour meter (EKM-15IDS ) which is a signal phase 50 amp unit which uses a DIN rail type mount.

I want to install the meter in a clear lid box so the reading can be viewed without opening it. Also want it to be rain tight, even though it will be used in covered slips well away from rain, but may be splashed with hose over spray. Also want to install a 120V GFCI outlet inside under the lid. I could cut an opening for the meter and the outlet in the box, sealing the meter face and use a cover for the outlet. Plan to use water type cable connectors and have the 30 Amp 3 prong shore power connector

The meter measures 4x3x2.75
Think of a 8x4x3 would be great but having a hard time finding it. The manufacture has one which will work but these guys want $100 for it, good grief. It measures 10.63x6.7x4.33

Looking for other ideas

 

[GA_Boater]

Have you looked at the Big Box stores? Or check with an electrical contractor in your area - They may have an idea for a box that costs less than the innards you're protecting.

 

[alldodge]

Been searching for days and not coming up with what I'm looking for, they are either to big or to small. The online places have a larger selection but trying to narrow it down is the issue. Was hoping someone may be thinking out of the box (so to speak) and have other ideas

 

[MTboatguy]

They make water tight clear boxes for all kinds of connections, do a search for clear electrical boxes.

You can check with these folks:

http://www.mcmelectronics.com/produ...tid=21-14640&gclid=CMvqyLXvhtICFYm2wAodqQ8Mdg

Here is a google search I just did and it came up with images of all kinds of boxes of various shapes and sizes:

https://www.google.com/search?q=cle...&ved=0ahUKEwig7f6d74bSAhUmzoMKHT-ZCiAQsAQIwgE

 

[GA_Boater]

Check these guys http://www.mierproducts.com/non-meta...nclosures.html, then search by part number. This one look similar to the pic in your post, AD. 8x6x4 for $60 on one site - PN BW-SL864C

 

[Baylinerchuck]

Banner makes some pretty nice enclosures that are NEMA rated with clear covers. You can order with the DIN rail mounted. You can get them from suppliers dealing in electrical controls. I use them at work for an ongoing project on the outside of my building and they're really nice.

 

[Scott Danforth]

We use a lot of NEMA 4x at work. $100 for a rated enclosure with a clear plastic cover is not bad.

Our door control enclosure is 12 x 16 x 8 and is $300

However you can check mcmaster carr about $40
https://www.mcmaster.com/#electrical...sures/=16b2anj

Or Amazon about $25

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B005T...xrL&ref=plSrch

 

[bigdee]

I have been dealing with company for years and their prices are unbeatable. https://www.automationdirect.com/ad...closures/Fiberglass_Enclosures/HW-CC80604CHQR

 

[alldodge]

Thanks for looking around guys. Would like to find one which would fit my measurements, but may have to settle for other type. Will keep looking and I like some of the options you've found

 

[Tim Frank]

Edit: Not a useful suggestion....I re-read OP.

 

[bigdee]

http://www.ekmmetering.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/1/7/172711_ul_enclosure_2.jpg[/IMG]

What about this? It is not clear but you could cut out a window and use a small piece of acrylic from Lowes ( they may give you a scrap piece). It is the right dimension and only $35. It is fiberglass. https://www.automationdirect.com/ad...ng/Enclosures/Fiberglass_Enclosures/HW-N4X844

 

[alldodge]

Thanks for looking around bigdee, I like it and wonder if it could be modified. My reason behind the hinge lid is to keep everything enclosed, and open it up to use the 120V outlet.

I just bought one yesterday with a hinge lid and its bigger then I wanted but also picked up a plate so I can cut out for the two items. Will have to wait for it to get here to see if it will work. GA had one pretty close buy the price was still up close to 100.

http://www.mouser.com/Search/Produc...-Cvirtualkey56310000virtualkey563-PTQ-11050-C
http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=35lE6QEawPnF44RoBLQJQQ==

Watch what happens, I move along with it them latter have to go back to the original one I was trying not to use because of cost.

 

[GA_Boater]

Thanks for looking around bigdee, I like it and wonder if it could be modified. My reason behind the hinge lid is to keep everything enclosed, and open it up to use the 120V outlet.

I just bought one yesterday with a hinge lid and its bigger then I wanted but also picked up a plate so I can cut out for the two items. Will have to wait for it to get here to see if it will work. GA had one pretty close buy the price was still up close to 100.

http://www.mouser.com/Search/Produc...-Cvirtualkey56310000virtualkey563-PTQ-11050-C
http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=35lE6QEawPnF44RoBLQJQQ==

Watch what happens, I move along with it them latter have to go back to the original one I was trying not to use because of cost.

No, the one you really want will go on clearance just after you finish the project. :doh:

 

[alldodge]

Well it turned out OK, and actually glad I used the bigger box. Would still like to make it a bit smaller, so will stay on the look out for Rev 2 design maybe later.

Looked for a 15 Amp DIN breaker and some how or another I wasn't paying attention and bought a 10 AMP. Should not be a problem, and if it is, will change it out later. Have plenty of DIN rail for future projects.



Using a cover plate and cut the items out using a roto-zip, hack saw blade and file.



Prefit all items



Wire it up



Fasten the top




All done



Never did see a clearance sale on the box, so that part was ok

 

[GA_Boater]

It turned out nice, AD. Good job.

 

[alldodge]

Thanks, I to was thinking not to bad.