wiring fuse panel

[cowboyup]

I'm in the process of rewiring my boat and have read several posts regarding putting a single in-line fuse to protect the distribution panel. Seems kind of redundant since the distribution panel has fuses for each piece of equipment, i.e. trim tabs, windshield wipers, lites etc..Unless of course the idea is to protect the distribution panel itself. Some say put a 30 amp in line fuse while others opt not to put anything. Any suggesttions?

 

[Mark42]

Re: wiring fuse panel

I put a 20 or 30 inline right near the battery. My "distribution panel" is a barriar block with a shorting strap on one side. Simple but effective on a boat with running lights and a horn.<br /><br />

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[crab bait]

Re: wiring fuse panel

it's to protect the 'main feed' wire from battery to panel.. <br /><br />i'd do it as per 'murphy's law'..

 

[sangerwaker]

Re: wiring fuse panel

A fuse acts not only to protect the end device, but the wire before the fuse from meltdown. If you didn't have a main fuse (or breaker), and your main wire got a nick or crack in it and shorted against something, your wire insulation could melt and start a fire.

 

[cowboyup]

Re: wiring fuse panel

Thanks for the advice fellas. It's back to the store one last time...yeah right.