Rotary switch on my circuit breaker panel

[pschauss]

Any idea what this switch in the center of my breaker panel is for? My boat is a sport fisherman with controls in the cabin and on the bridge.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ulcn41vbgx8uu ... 8.jpg?dl=0

This is my first attempt at posting a picture from drop box, so I apologize if it does not work.

Thanks,

[Rawleigh]

Isn't that the screw that holds the panel on?

[pschauss]

I realize that the picture does not show it very well, but I think that it sticks out too far to function for that purpose. Also, the off-center circle scribed around the hole suggests that there once was a knob attached to it.

[PeterPalmieri]

I believe that’s just a fastener.

[Tony Meola]

The cover has a screw in each corner. Once that is off if I Remer correctly that screw does release the panel. I would change that panel if I were you. Those breakers are not cheap if they go BAD. I was also told by the electrical supply house that at some point they were recalled for failure.

I replaced mine with a Blue Seas panel. They have one that is close in dimension. I had to make a frame for it to set in. It was easy since I was able to use Birch plywood quarter inch. Stained it mahogany and you would think it belonged there.

[pschauss]

Here is a better picture:

http://www.ipernity.com/doc/307687/46948288

Tony,

Thanks for the suggestion on the Blue Seas panel. I was thinking that the panel does look a bit scary. Is it possible to replace the panel without redoing the entire electrical system? So far, everything I have tested works except for the starter buttons on the flying bridge.

[Tony Meola]

Peter

Replacement easy and if the wiring is in good shape it is an easy transfer. The only issue you might have is that the Blue Seas panel comes with X number of 15 Amp breakers. You will need to make sure you also purchase larger or smalker breakers for the panel.

It took longer to cut and stain the frame.

I will look tomorrow and see if I can see the model number for you.

[Tony Meola]

Peter

Sorry I did not make it to the boat today. Rain for tomorrow so I will get the model number saturday.

[pschauss]

No rush. Replacing the panel is going to be a project for next winter. All of the essential functions on the boat are working so far.

[Keepat]

Here is few pictures of the panel on my 1980 31. If your breaker are the same theee is no room for a switch.
Thanks
Pat

[Tony Meola]

Peter

That is the same panel I removed. Wiring looks identical. Unless you are rewiring the boat replacement is several hours. Hardrrdt part is making the frame for the new panel, and then getting rid of unused wires.

O

[Tony Meola]

Peter

The panel I put in is 10 circuit model 8082.

To make it fit I removed the hour meters. With the new engines the hour meters are part of the techs.

You may need to either move the hour meters or the DC panel.