Blue Sea switch panels

BruceB · 03 March 2008, 23:40

looking at the various options I have decided to buy a BS Contoura switch panel with breakers. However the labelling method is not clear. Are they just stickers that can come off stuck onto the case or is there any cover or metod making sure they won't peel or come off when wet or get tatty with use?

Erin · 04 March 2008, 13:44

I think that is the panel I bought. If so, the labels are self adhesive, but they are on 3m material which in my experience is normally fantastic.

captnjack · 04 March 2008, 17:30

Blue Sea labels are very thick and kinda stiff. They seem to stick well to the underlying plastic. They are black with white-clearish lettering that the backlighting can show through.

JABS · 04 March 2008, 19:12

Make sure you degrease the paenl where the label sticks and it should stay there. Use a pure alcohol, even if it is a waste, it is the best degreaser now we can't use GenClean or Trike.

Let me know how you get on. I am looking to replace my panel and whilst I like the look of the one you have chosen, I am not sure they are as waterproof as I would like. I have seen them referred to as 'splashproof'.

Any othe ribbers input would be welcome.

Thanks

Tony

captnjack · 04 March 2008, 19:54

I have a 4 switch panel. Looks like this...
I have a pretty wet console and its fine. There's a rubber gasket protecting the fuses which are accessed from the front. Rubber boots on the switches. If the boat sinks its toast - there are some circuits on the back. But you can definately dump water on the front of it no problem.

Cypman · 04 March 2008, 22:25

I have installed these switch panels on a number of RIBs and have found them to be of high quality and durable. Have not had any label problems but reinforce the need for absolute grease-free surfaces prior to sticking down.

Chris · 04 March 2008, 22:42

I have the fused version and it has stood up to a year of saltwater and pressure washer abuse. if a switch does fail its easy to replace one at a time as they are modular.

The stickers are fine and made of a plastic material.

Cypman · 04 March 2008, 23:07

Sorry, forgot to mention on my last post, the CBs that are fitted to the panel you are planning to install are all rated at 15 amperes. If you are protecting sensitive electronics etc you can purchase lower rated CBs from Blue Sea and easily substitute.

BruceB · 05 March 2008, 20:03

I ended up buying the weatherdeck as pictured above, 6 way fused. I did look at the CB versions but am happier with the correct sized fuse in rather than lots of 15A CB on things drawing less than an amp or two. Didn't seem worth the extra cost for changing out all the CB to the correct values.
Now I just need to console to install it all into............

Cypman · 06 March 2008, 09:54

The weatherdeck panel is probably the better choice as not only is it cheaper!!! but the switches are set into the panel surface and are consequently less likely to be switched (off!!!) inadvertantly. Don't forget to carry your spare fuses.