Battery Disconnect Switch Exposure to Saltwater Spray

tboltmike

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 17, 2006
Messages
340
I have been looking at these switches on line and cannot find information on their resistance to a saltwater environment.

The only convenient place to locate one on my boat is on the side of the splash well above where the motor leads and cables enter the boat interior. However, this is subject to saltwater splash and spray.

Is this an acceptable location/ are the switches sealed?

Thanks, Mike
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Battery Disconnect Switch Exposure to Saltwater Spray

Since you didn't post a pic or give a model number, we can't know which battery switch you're speaking of. If you are considering a typical (red) marine Perko switch, with the 1, 2, BOTH, OFF settings, you'll be fine. The only exposed part are the brass/copper lugs and screws on the back, and the contacts are encased within the plastic housing.
 

tboltmike

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 17, 2006
Messages
340
Re: Battery Disconnect Switch Exposure to Saltwater Spray

Fireman, Yes. I was trying to stay generic as there are several manufactures. I was looking at a simple Perko on/off as I have only one battery and wanted a way to prevent drain when the boat is being stored.
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Battery Disconnect Switch Exposure to Saltwater Spray

That is exactly what they are designed for. Knock yourself out...you'll be fine.
 

raven7

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Aug 20, 2009
Messages
86
Re: Battery Disconnect Switch Exposure to Saltwater Spray

Wal-Mart has a battery disconnect switch with an Everstart label. It's brass with a 1/4 turn knob for on/off. Made to use on a standard battery post Price is $3.94
 
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