wiring

[Eroica]

What are thoughts on using standard braided wiring for DC circuits to non-critical sorts of things such as cabin lights? The marine-grade corrosion resistance stuff is expensive to have shipped here to HK and I can't find a local source.

[GordMay]

Although I HIGHLY recommend Tinned Copper Boat Cable (BC-5W2), I can envision circumstances that would make it's use somewhat impractical.
(It's "Stranded" not 'braided').

Tinned copper wire resists corrosion much better than un-tinned, allowing for much better terminations, longer life, higher reliability & safety.
If you substitute standard home wiring, you might increase the wire size slightly. and always seal your terminations with heat-shrink and or silicone.

My descision tree would include answers to the following questions:
1. What is the expense premium (price comparison)?
2. How accessable is the installation, allowing for future replacement?
3. What's my intended use of the boat?
ie: Coastal cruising, offshore...
4. How long do I intend to keep the boat?
ie: If it's a long-term relationship, then spend the extra money...
5. How non-critical are the loads?
ie: Cabin lighting probably OK ...
6. Are there other critical loads, which must use tinned wire?
ie: If you have to buy 'some' tinned wire anyway, don't substitute on the other ...
Cruisers' Forum will soon have an article (Ohm's Law & Boats") on boat wiring.
Hope this helps.
Regards,
Gord

[Sonosailor]

The instructor of a recent marine maintenance course I attended suggested that if you have to use untinned wire, at least tin the ends before making connections. And, as suggested by GordMay, consider sealing the connections if possible. Tinning ends and connections is easier than you think, using the basic electronic soldering kits sold in most hardware stores.

[GordMay]

Your instructor was partly right; tinning the wire ends can help to prevent corrosion - BUT you end up with a “hard spot” at the juncture of the tinned & untinned wire. This can cause the wire to break, particularly if subject to vibration (as on the Engine).
While tinning is not rocket science, it does take a little practice to master, and then it remains a time-consuming endeavor. I’d encourage everyone to seek out proper marine grade wire for any permanent installtion, even our friend in HK (where it’s expensive).
OMO
Gord