Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

[djpeters]

I want to start rounding up materials that I will need for re-wiring my Starcraft. I have a good understanding of DC circuits and have browsed through the diagrams on I-Boats. I have not wired a boat before, but I want to do it correctly so it's reliable.

Some general info: The boat will have a 140 Evinrude and an electric start Evinrude 9.9 kicker. I don't fish, so no trolling motors or down riggers. The only circuits I want to add is for some courtesy lights and a back-up switched bilge pump. I want 2 batteries and want to upgrade the stock 3-circuit panel that was on the dash. I also plan on a new set of gauges once I figure what all I need there as far a compatibility between gauges and senders. The only wiring I plan to re-use is the engine harness. This will be a trailered day boat. I also have a fixed mount VHF to install and the stock electric horn.

Now my questions.

1. Battery switch, what do I need? I assume just a 4 position would be fine. What is "alternator field" Do I need this?

2. Wiring and connectors, I know these need to be marine, and I can probably figure out wire gauge, but where do I buy all the correct wire colors, and also where do I get connectors, and whats the proper way to make reliable connections?

Thanks in advance.

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Quick reply before the movie....

genuinedealz.com has all the wiring stuff you'll need

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Field Disconnect is required for alternators that are typical on I/O and Inboard power plants. You don't need that feature on your outboard. For simplicity you can also use a VSR (voltage sensing relay) that will automatically keep both batteries charged without the need to fiddle with a switch that most folks get all befuddled over. How to make a proper connection will lead to a very long string of comments about crimping only, soldering only, and soldering and crimping. Whatever lights your fire. 16 qauge wire is very adequate for all basic circuits from the fuse panel to the switches and onto the accessories. You need #10 minimum as the feed and ground to the fuse panel with a fuse or breaker of 20 amps within six inches of the source.

 

[djpeters]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Thanks for the info so far. I have been surfing for a few hours and I think I will go with Ancor heat shrink adhesive connectors and get a decent crimper.

So instead of a manual battery switch, I could go with this? http://www.iboats.com/Charge-on-the-Go-12V-VSR/dm/view_id.341868 I like not having to fiddle with a switch

My kicker motor would only be used if the main motor quit or wouldn't start. Which battery should I hook it to? Obviously I could pull start the kicker as well. It also has a charging system on it, do I need to consider this in my setup?

 

[djpeters]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Another question to add to the ones in my previous post....

If I get a 6 gang dash switch panel with fuses for the stuff I need switches for, do I then also need a fuse block under the dash for the other stuff like VHF, stereo, power outlets.....or just use in-line fuses?

Thanks.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Things will get really messy with a bunch of inline fuse holders. I would add a fuse block and negative buss.

 

[djpeters]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Does it matter if my circuits are protected by a fuse, or by a circuit breaker? I'm just trying to decide if I want to get a switch panel with circuit breakers or just get switches and put a fuse block under the dash.

Thanks.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Does it matter if my circuits are protected by a fuse, or by a circuit breaker? I'm just trying to decide if I want to get a switch panel with circuit breakers or just get switches and put a fuse block under the dash.

Thanks.

Ayuh,... As long as everything is protected, it don't matter how ya do it...

 

[Don S]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

So instead of a manual battery switch, I could go with this? http://www.iboats.com/Charge-on-the-Go-12V-VSR/dm/view_id.341868 I like not having to fiddle with a switch

You will still need a battery switch when using that particular charge relay, here is a kit that works a lot better. http://www.iboats.com/7650-Add-a-Ba...5140857--**********.026450195--view_id.346170

Here is some information on the above charging system to help you decide. http://bluesea.com/category/2/productline/docs/329

 

[Don S]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Does it matter if my circuits are protected by a fuse, or by a circuit breaker? I'm just trying to decide if I want to get a switch panel with circuit breakers or just get switches and put a fuse block under the dash.

Thanks.

As bondo said, it doesn't matter, but it sure looks nicer and easier to troubleshoot if you have a fuse panel. Just put in the panel and go to the switches of your choice.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Field Disconnect is required for alternators that are typical on I/O and Inboard power plants.

Not required. Most switches , including the one Don suggested, are make before break so no field disconnect is required. Just don't ever turn to "OFF" while the engine is running and you will be fine.

 

[djpeters]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Thank You very much! Now to find some switches.....

 

[sprintst]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Take a quick look at http://www.ezacdc.com/Scripts/default.asp

You will be able to but the components piece by piece cheaper but it's an option as most is pre-wired.

I like the quick connectors on the accessories.

 

[jhebert]

Re: Re-Wiring a 22' Starcraft

Read

Boat Electrical Circuits and Wiring Practices
http://continuouswave.com/whaler/reference/boatWiring.html