Hi Guys,
I have a new 2 me 1988 Seaward 24. Very simple electrical system and I am replacing old/missing fuses. I only have cabin lights, navigation lights, fish finder, etc. Typical draw on any one circuit is under 2-3 amps, except for the bilge pump (~ 4 amps) and the outboard electric starter, which will be wired directly to the battery. Question is what size fuse to use? The wire itself is mostly 14 ga, which has a 35 amp max rating. Even 18 ga wire has a 20 amp capacity. New DC distribution panels apparently put in 15 amp breakers in most slots, which covers this. So the question is, if I have a circuit with 3 bulbs (ca. 3 amp draw) is there any reason not to use a 5 amp fuse? Or should I simply install 15 amp fuses in all the positions?
Carlos
I have a new 2 me 1988 Seaward 24. Very simple electrical system and I am replacing old/missing fuses. I only have cabin lights, navigation lights, fish finder, etc. Typical draw on any one circuit is under 2-3 amps, except for the bilge pump (~ 4 amps) and the outboard electric starter, which will be wired directly to the battery. Question is what size fuse to use? The wire itself is mostly 14 ga, which has a 35 amp max rating. Even 18 ga wire has a 20 amp capacity. New DC distribution panels apparently put in 15 amp breakers in most slots, which covers this. So the question is, if I have a circuit with 3 bulbs (ca. 3 amp draw) is there any reason not to use a 5 amp fuse? Or should I simply install 15 amp fuses in all the positions?
Carlos