Reverse Polarity Problem

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Kevin U

I just got my boat in this weekend after completion of some fiberglass repair work. While attempting to connect to shore power at the slip I noticed the "reverse polarity" warning light. I tried the connection from two other power outlets on the dock and the warning light came on as well. I never had this problem last year. Can someone respond back with what my next steps should be? What potentially could be wrong on board or at the marina? Thank you! Kevin
 
Jun 4, 2004
629
Sailboat - 48N x 89W
Reverse Polarity

The "Reverse Polarity" light is indicating that the Black “Hot” wire and the White “Neutral” are reversed. This is a very DANGEROUS situation. You could obtain a cheap “Circuit Tester” (http://shop.store.yahoo.com/cinemasupplies/idcirtes61.html) and perform a further test. If its still indicating reverse polarity - inform the dockmaster immediately, and have the marina correct the problem.
 

Tom S

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Feb 4, 2004
172
Catalina 36mkII Stamford, CT
Here are a few good links to reverse polarity

and the circuitry for the indicators. http://www.bluesea.com/Article_detail.asp?Section_ID=145&id=94 http://www.bluesea.com/Article_detail.asp?Section_ID=145&id=95 Please Note: Another condition could be "When high amperage loads are operated in the circuit, enough voltage drop in the length of the Neutral wire can be created to overcome the resistance in the 25K resistor required by ABYC that sufficient current is driven through the LED to cause faint illumination. This situation is not inherently dangerous, however, it can indicate undersized wiring in the dock, shorepower cord or ship’s wiring portion of the AC circuit."
 
A

AXEL

It might be the marina

If you didn't have the problem last year maybe it's the wiring at your slip that has changed. Try testing it again at a different marina.
 
K

Kevin U

Reverse Polarity

Thank you all. I will ask the marina to check the circuit and I will test as well. Kevin
 
Mar 8, 2004
22
Hunter 31_83-87 Eustis, Fl.
reverse polarity

I had the same problem, found out I didn't plug the ship to shore power cord in the receptacle properly...in too big of a hurry!!!!
 
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