In the year I've owned this boat I've come to realize there were a lot of sketchy things done with the DC wiring. I've pulled out the most egregious mistakes but the entire system could use updating. I've sketched out a diagram of what I think this system should look like but I'm sure I could learn a few things from people that have been through this before. I've put wire gauge and breaker/fuse ratings on the diagram to help me organize when it comes time to order material. I have seen systems with three main switches: ON/OFF for house loads, ON/OFF for the starter battery, and a third as an emergency to connect between the two systems. I have a 1/2/Both switch which is in very good shape so I am planning on using the "Both" position as an emergency jumper rather than add a third switch. I realize this opens up the possibility of running the house loads off only the starter battery but it's a reasonably low likelihood event with low impact so I can live with it, and really, that could happen with any setup.
One thing I am struggling with is the inverter connections. It is a 3000W inverter with two inputs. The manual says to use both inputs to get full load performance. Even with two inputs, each should be 125A so fused at least 150A but I'm trying to keep the existing wiring for that run and 150A is too much for the 2AWG cable. It is currently on two 50A fuses and I have not blown any fuses but I realize this must be very close to their limit when I run the microwave or toaster so I'm bumping up to two 100A fuses. Each run is 15 ft each way.
I was thinking of using "MEGA" fuses since they are a bit more cost effective than the terminal mount MRBF and the cantilevered design of the MRBF make me a bit nervous.
Any tips, ways I can simplify, things that are horribly wrong?
One thing I am struggling with is the inverter connections. It is a 3000W inverter with two inputs. The manual says to use both inputs to get full load performance. Even with two inputs, each should be 125A so fused at least 150A but I'm trying to keep the existing wiring for that run and 150A is too much for the 2AWG cable. It is currently on two 50A fuses and I have not blown any fuses but I realize this must be very close to their limit when I run the microwave or toaster so I'm bumping up to two 100A fuses. Each run is 15 ft each way.
I was thinking of using "MEGA" fuses since they are a bit more cost effective than the terminal mount MRBF and the cantilevered design of the MRBF make me a bit nervous.
Any tips, ways I can simplify, things that are horribly wrong?
