Wiring A Second Fuse Block

[dmarkvid2]

I want to wire a second fuse block inside my cabin so I could connect a couple of cigarette lighter type plugs for a coffee pot and other accessories. Can I run the main wires from the first fuse block's main terminals located behind the dash, or should I make a seperate run to the battery itself? Thanks

 

[xtraham]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

I would run a dedicated power source from the battery for something that draws the power of a coffee pot or the like, make sure the lighter receptacle is rated well above the rated amp draw of the accessories you plan to be using

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

If you run a dedicated run from the battery, you need a circuit breaker or fuse at or near the battery as well.

Depending on how much current you plan on drawing, you can use something similar to these:

High Current

Low Current

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

A small point to consider but an important one, neither of those fuse systems are ignition protected. So they must be installed where they're isolated from the engine, fuel tanks, fill/vent lines, etc, or use a ignition protected overcurrent device (circuit breaker / fuse).

I was very surprised to learn how many of these devices sold supposedly for boats are not ignition protected.

 

[tommays]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

i work more on land and the standards are much higher on the whole ignition protected deal

It seems on boats that a glass fuse would not normaly make a spark when it blows and most boats use a dime store holder for the bilge pump fuse right from the factory


This would never be allowed down at the gas station

Tommays

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

Paul,

You know of any fuse that is better than what BlueSea offers? I would think that those fuses are pretty much selaed and wouldn't pose an ignition problem. What do you suggest?

I don't think the circuit breakers are actually much more sealed than these fuses.

 

[tommays]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

The circuit breakers and solenoids ARC in there normal use and are sealed and have a rateing for and enclosed engine

Just like all the other engine electric parts that ARC in normal use




Tommays

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: Wiring A Second Fuse Block

Instead of using the fuse above just switch it to the ANL type which are ignition protected
ANL fuse
ANL fuse block