40.5 pedestal wiring

[Frank P]

Happy New Year…
My new project is to install a stereo remote on the pedestal of my 1994 40.5. However, space is very limited with the existing wires at the PVC thru-deck fitting (when viewed from under the cockpit). It looks like I might be able to squeeze the two wires (with fairly large connectors) through the existing wire bundle but I will need to move around the existing wire looms quite a bit. I don’t have a clear picture how the PVC exits into the pedestal and I don’t have any leaks at this time. I am concerned that once I start poking around in there I’ll never get it water tight again.

Does anyone have experience in routing wires through this junction and any tips on what to expect?

Thanks and Happy New Year!

Frank

 

[Ed Schenck]

New stereo with wireless remote might be called for here. There are things that I would work hard to get into the pedestal. A remote to the stereo sure ain't one of them. Just like my RAM Mic for the VHF, wireless is the way to go.

 

[Rick D]

Hi, Frank

Yes, it is tight with even the stock wiring loom. I drilled another hole with a hole saw for my radar display and are in the process of wiring in a fuel gauge. I used plumbing components in place of a through hull but I wasn't happy with it and have purchased another to install. I have had no leaks, but I could easily enough without a good seal. I'll have to remove the AP drive motor to do the job. Hope this helps and happy new year. I won't be on the board for a week or so, but PM me if any questions.

 

[Ed Schenck]

So Frank, are you determined to get those wires up there? Someone wrote recently about putting an access panel in that pedestal. Do you have that so that it is easy to access the wires inside the base? If so then I would cut the plugs off and resplice after forcing the wires up through the conduit.

 

[Frank P]

Thanks Guys,
I am goining to go with the additional hole. It will give me a good chance to inspect everthing els in that area.

...Rick, are you using PVC and RTV for the transition?

Thanks
Frank

 

[Rich Stidger]

I simply drilled a couple holes and.....

after running my new wires I sealed around the wires with a caulk. I probably used either LifeCaulk or a silicone caulk. I've never had a leak issue.

I didn't try to use the existing wire loom because I thought it was too full already.

See the picture below for location of the holes I drilled (red arrows). They were about 1/2" or 3/4" in size. The wires come out in the area under the cockpit floor and above the rudder area that is accessible behind the cover at the back of the aft cabin. From there you can run the wires to either stern lazarette, helm console, or to the electrical panel.

 

[Frank P]

Re: I simply drilled a couple holes and.....

Thanks Rich, that will give me another option!

Frank

 

[Rick D]

PVC