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Hi, I am adding a windlass to my...

longislandguy
Guest Contributor

Hi,

 

I am adding a windlass to my 2012 240 Sundancer.  Do I have to run wire (8 gauge) to the batteries to get power, or is there a more convenient location I can get power?

 

Thanks

2 REPLIES 2

wingless
Rising Contributor
Follow all the ABYC requirements for this project.

The wire size must be selected based on the load current and the round trip length. When I do wiring projects, I bump up one or two sizes larger for extra power for the device. Here is a wire size table.

https://www.westmarine.com/WestAdvisor/Marine-Wire-Size-And-Ampacity

When I have added additional high current draw components to my boat, I have found appropriate alternatives to adding additional wires onto the battery terminals. The ABYC requirements limit the quantity of wires on battery terminals. It is common to observe a "rats nest" of wires on improperly "upgraded" boats.

The wiring diagram for this boat is in the linked document. Page 28 shows the MBSS feeds a power post on Page 28. That is the place I would investigate for connecting the high-current contactor and circuit protection for this device.

https://bbg1.my.salesforce.com/sfc/p/#E0000000Z21E/a/E00000000UNy/q5VMBLlC4ga2ZfS.wsfTpAvaw7KKARpm8MmqxZDTE6w

Don't forget to attain a secure installation. The usage of a thick backer plate, not just fender washers, will help to distribute the load for strength.

Don't neglect maintenance of this device, per the manufacturer's instructions. This is not a set and forget component.

wingless
Rising Contributor
The factory used these Intellitec contactors for the port, starboard, generator and windlass on / off power connection. These are high-current latching relays, that require a power pulse to toggle state from off to on, also for on to off.

My boat has MBSS pushbutton switches in the engine room and in the salon. The master power toggle switch for the windlass is at the helm.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m52/wingless-pics/Boat/BatteryContactor.jpg