The best form of connection is undoubtedly a soldered joint, but this is not always practicable.
Switches and fuse holders often are constructed with spade-type
terminals.
The double-skinned construction of the superstructure does provide
scope to run wires between the two skins, any holes cut in the inner grp
ceiling skin to facilitate threading being covered by the teak ply panel.
Lighting
The original saloon filament lighting provided warm, if somewhat dim illumination in the cabin,
but could draw several amps. Many owners have now opted for LED lighting which draws
miniscule amounts of current, at the price of much brighter and harsher illumination. There is
also movement towards LED navigation lights (expensive). Replacement LED bulbs and fittings for
both interior and navigation lights are available from firms such as
E C Smith
.
Switch Panels
The original panel only provided for four circuits, far fewer than needed
today. Many owners have fitted commercial panels, but many others have
gone down the diy route, tailoring the design of the panel to meet their
electrical control requirements and the physical space constraints.
Shore Power
Bringing mains power aboard is a real boon. It makes the installation of a cool box or fridge
viable, as well as enabling batteries to be brought to full charge via a battery charger. Mains
power and water make a dangerous, potentially(!) lethal, combination, and the provision of shore
power MUST be done properly. There is more than one article below about how to do this safely.
Instruments
It is difficult to say much about instruments because of the vast choice now available and the
differing needs of individual owners. Perhaps the four units needed as a minimum for navigation
are echo sounder, compass, and either log, GPS or chart plotter, and radio. The question most
usually asked in this context is where is the best place to site the echo sounder and /or log.
Manufacturers' instructions are clear, in principle, but the application of them is a different matter.
A convenient site for the log impeller is in the small locker under the hanging locker. Any
'flooding' when the log is removed for cleaning is neatly constrained. The forward starboard locker
under the seat is a frequent choice for the echo sounder. Log impellers often need removal to
clean accumulated weed and barnacles off the paddle wheel; the need is reduced if the impeller is
withdrawn after each trip. There is more than one item below on log impeller problems.
Repair, Modifications etc
Reference Library
12 Volt Socket Installation
Basic
Electrics
Battery
and
Alternator
Management
Battery
Maintenance
Charging
From
Outboard
Fuses
Private Mobile Radio
Shore Power
Split
Charging
System
Split
Charging
System 2
Twin
Battery
Installation
VHF
Basics
Wiring
Diagram
25
