wiring a battery switch...

hippie2

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 4, 2008
Messages
49
I've done this a number of times but I just can't remember how it's done. I have a standard 2 battery switch with 1 battery for starting and the other for all the toys (FF, GPS, stereo, etc). In addition I have 2 red smaller wires (medium size) that run toward the bow and supply current to the "toys". If I hook them onto the switch post meant for the battery used for "toys" located on the back side of the switch, how do I get current to the toys (accessories) when running on the engine battery? Or where should I attach these wires?
I've searched the internet and no one addresses this situation. Please help me out.

Thank you, Bob
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: wiring a battery switch...

You have to hook all outgoing circuits to the common terminal. If you hook them to the battery terminal they are no longer switched.

1-2-Both.jpg
 

hippie2

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 4, 2008
Messages
49
Re: wiring a battery switch...

Don, so what you are saying is to put these 2 wires on the "both" post in the switch? But what if I am only running on #1 battery, how will they get the current to carry to the accessories? Thanks, Bob
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: wiring a battery switch...

There is no "Both" terminal, there is Battery 1, battery 2, and common.

All your engine, toys, everything comes off the common (or at least they should with a 4 position switch).
You have to select which battery you are using for things.
There is no way with a standard 1-2-Both-Off switch you can isolate each system to a separate battery.

http://assets.bluesea.com/files/resources/reference/all-switches.pdf
 

hippie2

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Dec 4, 2008
Messages
49
Re: wiring a battery switch...

ok, I understand it now. Thank you for your help, Bob
 
Top