Electrical Panels/ Circuit Breakers

[CaptainK]

On my 1973 Catalina 27 sailboat. I have a electrical/circuit breaker panel. And there are two columns of switches.

On the right hand column of switches. I have two switches borken off. Could they be replaced without replacing the whole panels compliment of switches? Like I said. There are only "two" switches broken. The remaining others are fine.

Just wanted some imput on this subject. Since my time is coming up soon, to move and go start fixing her up.

Any welcoming imput is very welcomed!!

[Lynx]

It really depends on what you want to use the boat for and how old is the pannel. The Pannels are not expensive. If you plan on cruising or kepping the boat for some time then replace the pannel and look at replacing the existing wireing as well.

If you need the broken breackers, you can temp put in inline fuses until you do the entire remodel.

Good luck.

[CaptainK]

I posted the photo of the electrical/curcuit breaker panel, on my photo page on this site shortly. Then you'll see what I'm talking about?

Maybe that'll help anyone to help me assess this out?

[CaptainK]

The photo of that electrical/circuit breaker panel is "now" posted on my members photo page, in the photo gallery.

I hope when someone reads my first post. And then looks at the photo. Then maybe we could come up with a good solution?

[GordMay]

Kevin:
Yes, replacement Circuit Breakers are available, to replace the broken ones.
West Marine (for one) carries ‘Blue Sea Systems’ (& sometimes ‘Ancor’) Breakers, at just under $20/ea (about $11/wholesale).

[S/V Elusive]

As an FYI, they can be obtained in 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 amp limits. Installation is with two screws on the front side of the panel. Do NOT buy the cheap "switches" - they are not breakers. This is an easy fix and doesn't cost much.

[CaptainK]

Thanks Thomas & Gord.

I figured that looking at it in person. And studying the photos that I took of the boat, while I visited Kai Nui in March.

The switches looked like they were apart from each other from the front of the panel. "Only" two switches needed replace. So I will only replace what is needed. And I'll visit West Marine or equivilant store!

Thanks guys!!

[JGI417]

Per your post you stated that you had two broken switchs, I had a Catalina 30, and I replaced several switchs, on my panel. I do not recommend using a c/b as a switch. If you can not locate a replacment switch check with the Catalina Association.

[GordMay]

John:
Kevin’s (pictured) panel is definitely utilizing Circuit Breakers (for cct. protection), not switches.
Blue Sea Systems (& most other) “A” Frame Magnetic Circuit Breakers are Switching Duty rated.
You can safely use a (switch rated) Circuit Breaker as a switch ~ but NOT a Switch as a breaker.

[JGI417]

Sorry Gord, I did not see the picture, just going by the post.
John

[CaptainK]

Thanks Gord.

I'll add that to my list of parts needed.

[ssullivan]

Captain K: Your issues is completely solved here already. But... I had to put in some new switches (really breakers) in my panel when I installed those Iota 90 battery chargers. West Marine even had them in stock. It was a very simple procedure to replace them. Couple screws in the front, holding it in place, and the screws in the back to wire to. You'll have no trouble at all.

[CaptainK]

Thanks Sean.

Yeah, I was a bit concerned about them switches. And considering that I will be fixing that boat up. I wanted that very item taken care of, ASAP.