master swithc location

[Bushrider]

Hello ,
In my last SR6 post the pictures were messed up and turned so I assume nobody really noticed my question about the location I installed the new master switch .
Has anybody bad experience installing the master switch not inside the console but outside and exposed to the element ?
Blue Sea tells >
- Case design allows surface, rear, or front panel mounting options
- Waterproof – rated IP66 from water projected in powerful jets
SORRY - drives me nuts - but again pictures twisted ..

[Salty Pete]

As far as my knowledge can be stretched a master switch is to prevent any leakage from the battery due to the damp conditions that the wiring is exposed too. Therefore it is generally positioned as close to the battery as possible not on the console.

[ShinyShoe]

Originally Posted by Salty Pete

As far as my knowledge can be stretched a master switch is to prevent any leakage from the battery due to the damp conditions that the wiring is exposed too. Therefore it is generally positioned as close to the battery as possible not on the console.

Battery might be 40cm below the switch...

I'd never IP66 on the deck of a RIB.

The issue here is - if the switch fails - have you lost all you electronics? Is that a PITA or a disaster?

Is there a reason switch needs exposure

[Bushrider]

I had before my ETEC 90s were stolen a twin setup with the 2 batteries in the only available storage box (underneath the seat)
That left very little room to store any other items you want to take with you .
So rigging a single motor now - saving the 2. battery and moving the starter battery for the motor underneath the console gave me full storage under the seat .
The battery is now located straight underneath the master switch - so very short battery cables .
I can access it also through a service hatch .
So not a big deal in case of trouble .
I had several ETECs before and they were all running great .
Probably not only ETEC specific but EMMs do not like voltage peaks caused for instance by bad battery connections - not talking about price and availability of these parts.
I am just a bit concerned that not the battery connection itself - but the master switch can cause the same problem .
As said BlueSea tells the switch is splash waterproof .
I will still install a small protection that water cannot run over the switch from the top .
That’s why my question - has anybody had bad experience of a damaged EMM caused by a faulty master switch ?

[Pikey Dave]

Originally Posted by Bushrider

I had before my ETEC 90s were stolen a twin setup with the 2 batteries in the only available storage box (underneath the seat)
That left very little room to store any other items you want to take with you .
So rigging a single motor now - saving the 2. battery and moving the starter battery for the motor underneath the console gave me full storage under the seat .
The battery is now located straight underneath the master switch - so very short battery cables .
I can access it also through a service hatch .
So not a big deal in case of trouble .
I had several ETECs before and they were all running great .
Probably not only ETEC specific but EMMs do not like voltage peaks caused for instance by bad battery connections - not talking about price and availability of these parts.
I am just a bit concerned that not the battery connection itself - but the master switch can cause the same problem .
As said BlueSea tells the switch is splash waterproof .
I will still install a small protection that water cannot run over the switch from the top .
That’s why my question - has anybody had bad experience of a damaged EMM caused by a faulty master switch ?

Personally, I wouldn't want to mount the switch in an exposed position, irrespective of the stated IP rating. Things get knocked/damaged/UV damaged in exposed locations. The master switch is the last thing you want to fail. I prefer mine tucked away in the dry protection of the console. They aren't something that you need ready access to.

[Bushrider]

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

Personally, I wouldn't want to mount the switch in an exposed position, irrespective of the stated IP rating. Things get knocked/damaged/UV damaged in exposed locations. The master switch is the last thing you want to fail. I prefer mine tucked away in the dry protection of the console. They aren't something that you need ready access to.

Good arguments . Basically I could simply turn it around and mount it with the knob to the inside of the console . Could use the same holes in the console and put a cover on .
Cable length remains the same .

[Pikey Dave]

Originally Posted by Bushrider

Good arguments . Basically I could simply turn it around and mount it with the knob to the inside of the console . Could use the same holes in the console and put a cover on .
Cable length remains the same .

sounds like a plan. I'd be tempted to use a backing piece between the switch & the hole & seal the hole, so that the back of the switch isn't exposed.

[Bushrider]

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

sounds like a plan. I'd be tempted to use a backing piece between the switch & the hole & seal the hole, so that the back of the switch isn't exposed.

That can be done easily .
So I’ll go for it and nothing to worry anymore .