Bilge switch

[ultrasport]

My bilge switch sporadically works. Sporadic as i hit rocker switch back n forth 10 times n it may turn on once. Tried to switch "rocker switch" but seams little tougher than I thought as wires and location is tight. Any tips to check or advice on changing switch? I have multi electrical meter. Not great with electrical but anyone got advice to steer me through troubleshooting? Thanks.

 

[DaleH]

Intermittent issues are the toughest to diagnose, but it sounds like something has a poor connection. Did you try any lube/cleaner into the switch?

Great read for marine DIY electrical tests: http://boatsafe.com/nauticalknowhow/electricity2.htm

That said, there could be corrosion in the leads. I always leave a few inches of slack for a 'service loop', as well as have length to spare to cut off and replace a corroded end of the wire or connector or both.

Do some resistance checks and you should isolate the culprit. But if your leads and terminal connections are NOT protected by adhesive-lined heatshrink (they should be ... ) then sometimes a visual check can show issues, i.e., green = corrosion = heat = increased resistance, which typically causes fuses to blow and breakers to trip. But a poor connection can be the result too.

FWIW I've once even found resistance in a Guest battery switch! It's location in the stern was affected by the moist saltwater environment.

 

[warthog5]

As Dale said......I have had to replace switches that just sat.....IE: Sat over time without use and failed to make connection when needed.

A Ohm meter on the switch without power on it is your friend.