Electrical Problem (only on the hard)

tmod30

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Oct 13, 2008
2
Catalina 36 MKII Atlantic Highlands
I am having a problem with my electric system, only while on the hard. The GFI on the outlet I am plugged into trips most times as soon as I turn on the main circuit. I have tried different outlets and no one else around me seems to have any problem. And to make this further confusing, last week it worked for several hours and I was able to run the battery charger. Any suggestions would be welcome!
 
Jan 2, 2014
16
Catalina 22 Pelican Lake, MN
GFI's are infamous for failing in this fashion, if possible change out with your neighbor to make sure the GFI is not the problem. Or just invest in a replacement GFI.
 
Jan 22, 2008
423
Catalina 30 Mandeville, La.
The GFI indicates a ground fault. It may trip if the ground lead isn't connected, or of there is voltage on the ground lead. Things to check, ac ground on outlet is connected to ac ground from shore power, is the ground and neutral connected to each other on your boat AND on the ac shore power? Is the neutral swapped with the hot lead?
The neutral and ground are normally tied together, but shouldn't be at both the shore power source panel and on your boat. This will produce a ground loop and if enough voltage flows here, it will trip your GFI. Keep in mind, if you have a generator, the neutral and hot should be connected there, but isolated when shore power is connected.

Bottom line, check the ground.
 
Oct 29, 2012
353
Catalina 30 TRBS MkII Milwaukee
Try a different extension cord with a intact ground prongs. In good condition without damaged insulation