Marine switch panels

[Hannibal]

Hi all. I previously requested some information in another thread about replacing my existing switch panel on my helm. It's faded, worn out, etc. I was referred to another site to a guy who does some custom work. It looks like he does great work but is a bit pricey for my needs.

Anyhow, I currently have an 8-gang panel which has been labled using an adhesive label maker. Oddly enough, it looks pretty decent and is highly functional.

However, I want to do something a little cleaner and more professional. In looking online, I've found numerous panels that should do the trick. Most places though, seem to only carry up to a 6-gang panel. Mine is an 8-panel and is fully used.

I found the exact one I have but it's a discountinued model. Everything else that is 8-gang is "horizontal". I'd like to utilize the existing cut that's already there rather than something new. I am fine with even enlarging it. Are there options I am missing?

I am stuck with a horizontal mount - could I simply cut a peice of 1/4" starboard (I have plenty leftover), lay it over the existing hole and notch it out for a horizontl mount.

I could also mount two 6-gang panels side by side. Would probably look nicer and offer me additional switch oppertunities (not currently needed). Would this present me with any wiring issues? I understand that just because I have additional switches to utilize, that I can't simply add more draw ......... but from a 1 to 1 carry over from what I have - does two panels require anything additional?

 

[DaleH]

I found the exact one I have but it's a discountinued model. Everything else that is 8-gang is "horizontal". I'd like to utilize the existing cut that's already there rather than something new. I am fine with even enlarging it. Are there options I am missing?

I am stuck with a horizontal mount - could I simply cut a peice of 1/4" starboard (I have plenty leftover), lay it over the existing hole and notch it out for a horizontl mount.

That's what I did when I made up my own custom "back lit" panel, with trim tab switches integrated, see below:

I could also mount two 6-gang panels side by side. Would this present me with any wiring issues? I understand that just because I have additional switches to utilize, that I can't simply add more draw ......... but from a 1 to 1 carry over from what I have - does two panels require anything additional?

No, you just feed both panels, run to #1 panel and a lead from there to panel #2.

I didn't have as much switched power at the helm to worry about expansion, as I'm all set for lights, horn, and accessories. As is, most items, like electronincs, should be siwtched directly from that item, so maybe you just need another power/buss panel, fused or ATM-type, but non-switched.

 

[gw204]

You could remove all of the switches and breakers from your existing panel and then take it to a sign/trophy shop for duplication. They could cut it to size, cut the holes and engrave the functions for you. They you would just have to reinstall the electrical components.

I build my own using Rowmark UV-stable engraving stock. I cut and drill the new panel, then have the engraving done. Here are two I've done in the past.

 

[Hannibal]

Man - that looks nice. I wish my helm was setup like that so I could do something similar. Unfortunately, I am left with a small section (about 13-15" high by about 7-8" wide) just to the right of the wheel. This is where the current panel is. Above that, the angled peice is too short to allow for much usage. And the top section is currently occupied by my Fish Finder/GPS unit and the compass. I also don't think I'd like mounting the switch panel on a flat (horizontally) surface.

I ended up ordering this:

Order a 6-gang panel and a 4-gang panel from Jamestown Distributers. They are from Blue Sea Systems. Splashproof and backlit. Also comes with inter-changeable labels.

My plan would be to remove the existing panel, overlay it with a trimmed peice of black starboard (left over from when I built the doors, etc.) I'd then mount the 6-panel next to the wheel. I'd reconnect most typical items up front:

Nav. Lights
Deck/Flood Lights
VHF
Horn
Fish Finder/GPS
12V Outlet

The 4-gang would go inside the cuddy to replace an existing 3-switch panel that doesn't work. I will overlay the existing cutout with a peice of trimmed starboard and recess the panel. To that, I would plan to hook up all "inside" items specific to what is housed in the cuddy:

AM/FM Radio
Fans
Cuddy Lights
Bilge Pumps (manual run)

This should hopefully get things on their way to be clean and tidied up. Should also help improve the look and accessability. I am hoping.

 

[Candidos Dad]

Blue Sea # 1457 narrow
1463 with meter narrow
wider than above 8023