how to install 12v cabin fan

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steve

I wish to install a Caframo bora 12 cabin fan on my hunter 326. I have never installed antthing elec. on my boat. At home I can do small elec. jobs. Or should I just buy a box fan to run off the cigarette lighter.
 

higgs

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Aug 24, 2005
3,704
Nassau 34 Olcott, NY
Do it right

Install and mount a cabin fan instead of having the cigarette plug model. if you can do home electrical you can do the boat. For a professional looking job, you will have to figure out how to hide the 2 wires as they lead back to your panel. You will also have to decide which breaker to tap into. I have a separate breaker for fans, but one fan could probably be run nicely off your cabin lights breaker. All in all, adding stuff like this is not difficult for someone who likes to do projects.
 
Feb 6, 1998
11,701
Canadian Sailcraft 36T Casco Bay, ME
The Bora

Draws very little current! We taped into out cabin light circuit in the v-berth. All you need to know is which wire is positive and which one is negative it's about as basic as hot and clod water piping... As long as your cabin light circuit has the capacity for a few extra millivolts, which it should, your fine to tap into the cabin lighting circuit rather than running back to the panel. I did not want to waste a circuit breaker on something that draws so little.... BTW you'll love a cabin fan!!
 
Jul 1, 2004
398
Catalina 30 Atlanta GA
The ole battery connector

One simple way to install any 12-volt accessory is directly to the battery. They sell (auto and marine stores) a simple attachment that connects to the battery posts that further allows the attachment of typical 12 volt connectors. These are for the negative post as well; however, I normally use a large "eye" fitting crimped to the negative wire to go under the battery cable on the post or whatever which way as battery posts will vary. To protect the circuit you MUST attach an in-line fuse on the positive side that are sold as the fuse holder with the two wires for attachment coming off each end. This set up for your fan will come in handy if your batteries are closer then the electrical panel. This might help in hiding the wires better. I have attached several accessories this way to avoid long wiring runs. As long as you install the in-line fuse with the proper amp fuse, your just fine. The tough part really is hiding the wires! With these one-piece sealed headliners, its a real challenge to get them out of the way. You might have to drill through a bulkhead, closest wall, vanity or hanging locker to get 'er done right. Good luck Bob Georgia
 

Jim

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May 21, 2007
775
Catalina 36 MK II NJ
No, this is an easy job

you can tape 12 volts off of you lights. You don't need a home run back to the fuse panel. I am an electrical engineer and I have check out the current draw.
 
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