I am in need of an electical diagram for my recently purchased Macgregor 26D (1988). I am having problems with the exterior lights and cannot figure out the wiring mess that is my boat. Does anyone have a picture they could send me? Thank you in advance for any assistance! Suzan
Electrical layout
- Thread starter schaffin08
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rewire
Can't help with specifics on your boat but mine (1980 25') was also a mess. They wired it with lamp cord! So I ripped it all out this winter and rewired it. You should probably do the same.
Can't help with specifics on your boat but mine (1980 25') was also a mess. They wired it with lamp cord! So I ripped it all out this winter and rewired it. You should probably do the same.
I agree
We also rewired our 90S this winter. I think it was easier and likely saved time just going new instead of trying to figure out what was going on in that mess of wire.
We also rewired our 90S this winter. I think it was easier and likely saved time just going new instead of trying to figure out what was going on in that mess of wire.
me too
I'm in the process of adding another panel with 3 more circuits and a DC outlet (cigarette lighter socket). I'm replacing the crappy Mac wiring as I go. The basic lighting wiring is pretty simple and easy to diagram. If someone has added circuits, you'll have to trace them and sketch a new layout. Be sure to figure in any new circuits and switches you plan to add (instrumentation, stereo, solar charger etc)
I'm in the process of adding another panel with 3 more circuits and a DC outlet (cigarette lighter socket). I'm replacing the crappy Mac wiring as I go. The basic lighting wiring is pretty simple and easy to diagram. If someone has added circuits, you'll have to trace them and sketch a new layout. Be sure to figure in any new circuits and switches you plan to add (instrumentation, stereo, solar charger etc)
not too difficult
I had to replace all my switches last year as they were badly coroded. I found a diagaram on the website below and added a cig lighter. I might add, I know nothing about electrical. http://www.ne-ts.com/mac/bb/bb-205elecdia.html
I had to replace all my switches last year as they were badly coroded. I found a diagaram on the website below and added a cig lighter. I might add, I know nothing about electrical. http://www.ne-ts.com/mac/bb/bb-205elecdia.html
Is your wiring this bad?
I'm in the same boat (pun intended) with the wiring on our "new" 26S. Check out the link and have a chuckle. What's under the seats is even worse! It's all ripped out and I'm starting to rewire... In regard to the "lamp cord", I read an article that compared it to automotive wire and found it more flexible before breaking (more strands) and the softer insulation abraded less against fiberglass. The ultimate is tinned marine cable that's in water/oil/gas proof jacketing, especially for salt water use - but the price! Chris
I'm in the same boat (pun intended) with the wiring on our "new" 26S. Check out the link and have a chuckle. What's under the seats is even worse! It's all ripped out and I'm starting to rewire... In regard to the "lamp cord", I read an article that compared it to automotive wire and found it more flexible before breaking (more strands) and the softer insulation abraded less against fiberglass. The ultimate is tinned marine cable that's in water/oil/gas proof jacketing, especially for salt water use - but the price! Chris
Wire gauge information
When rewiring, it is important to use the correct gauge for supply and for each circuit. The attached link is an excellent reference. Note the information regarding engine room use and when "bundling" wires together. For most sailboats, 10 GA is more than sufficient for battery to panel, 14 GA to radio and autopilot and 18GA for lighting. When in doubt, go thicker... Chris
When rewiring, it is important to use the correct gauge for supply and for each circuit. The attached link is an excellent reference. Note the information regarding engine room use and when "bundling" wires together. For most sailboats, 10 GA is more than sufficient for battery to panel, 14 GA to radio and autopilot and 18GA for lighting. When in doubt, go thicker... Chris
Thank you all!
You have all helped me so much. I plan on using you advise and re-wiring the mess and adding new circuts. Take care and happy sailing. Suzan
You have all helped me so much. I plan on using you advise and re-wiring the mess and adding new circuts. Take care and happy sailing. Suzan
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