12V Panel

[fairwindgirl]

Hi there, we're trying to get behind the electrical panel to fix the speed meter which has recessed from the cockpit into the boat behind the electrical panel.

We unscrewed the port side of the panel, but the starboard side will not release and we don't know if it is because of old swollen plywood, or if there is another hidden screw on that side. We can see somewhat behind, but not enough to verify where there is a screw or not. Any thoughts?

Merry Christmas!

 

[agprice22]

I would think you would need to supply the make, model, and year of the boat for anyone to know if there is another screw in your particular dc panel. Also, I think some pictures would help someone determine whether another fastener is involved.

Sometimes, when screwing through finish bulkheads, manufacturers countersink and plug screw holes. Perhaps that is the case here?

Thanks,

Andrew

 

[Davidasailor26]

Sorry to be snarky, but I'm afraid this applies here:



Our 28 had the speed / distance meter and depth sensor in a separate panel next to the companionway, enclosed by a wooden box in the cabin. I'm surprised you have one near the 12V panel?

 

[fairwindgirl]

Sorry for the incomplete information and lack of photos. This is a 1982 O'Day 30. I need to know if I should just unscrew the panel face to get to the back of the panel, or if the whole piece of wood is supposed to come off? The wood feels like it is screwed in somewhere on the left side of the image, but I cannot see or access any other screws.

 

[Stu Jackson]

Unscrew only the panel, look inside and see how the wood is connected.

 

[LANCE ON CLOUD NINE]

Is it possible that the 4 screws holding the battery switch are also additionally holding the panel face down?

 

[fairwindgirl]

Okay, there is a recessed and "plugged" screw on the panel holding it in on the side that won't release. I unscrewed the panel itself, can see the knot meter and that it is no longer screwed to the fiberglass and that's why it has fallen inward. The panel does not have enough freedom for me to actually repair anything or even work on the panel or see how it is wired. It will only pull out about 1-1/2 inches. I can look at things from the quarter berth access, but if it is not simple to work on the panel or behind it, time to call in a marine electrician. Thanks for the comments.