New Boat, looking to add some stuff to the system.

[boatboy14]

Hey All. I am buying a 1979 Orrion Boat, and I will be wanting to add some stuff to the electrical system. As of right now, I can only think of these things. A stereo system: I would need to know everything to buy, as I am new to the electrical parts of the boat. I would also be looking to add a bilge pump, and maybe a power trim... not sure if the boat already has one... I don't think there is one. It has a 1978 Mercury Model 850 on it, and I am guessing that it has its own alternator/battery charger that works through the motor. I might also need to buy a tachometer and speedometer, and I would like to get them lighted, so that if I boat at night, I can see those. Also, it has been brought to my attention that I should add a battery switch (one that cuts off power coming from the battery to items on the boat.) How much should I pay for one of these, where should I put it on the boat, and how do I install them. Thanks so much in advance!

 

[R Socey]

Re: New Boat, looking to add some stuff to the system.

I would prioritize: Make sure the electrical system was sound including kill switch, breakers, fuses - all the integral stuff. Then you can install bilge pump etc. Take them one at a time, and you will get very concise help from this forum. Good Luck!

 

[boatboy14]

Re: New Boat, looking to add some stuff to the system.

So, if I were to use the battery only for starting, it would keep fully charged? (If i decide to not to hook other stuff up to it?)

 

[Silvertip]

Re: New Boat, looking to add some stuff to the system.

There are a gazillion posts in this forum on how to wire and use a dual battery switch, stereos, lights, gauges, etc. Use the search feature and learn how tis stuff works before you spend money on stuff you may not even need. Stereo systems are the same in a boat as they are in a car, but built for marine use. To install these items you follow the directions included with the product. Get the boat and then study the electrical system carefully so you know what you have and can then ask intelligent questions. We can't see your boat so you need to provide accurate information to get reasonable answers. Boat wiring diagrams are provided in the stickies at the top of this forum -- not ths page.