12v Power Box

[Sonofgum]

I velcroed the battery to the bottom of the box, seems to work up til now.

[Aaron]

That’s a neat job.

Couple of thoughts... Good alternatives to 4mm (speaker) terminals (which you can accidently connect reverse polarity) are pro cigar lighter type connectors called (DIN ISO 4165). Also Speakons or XLR’s work well. Speakons are very practical as they are tough, can be used with cold hands, make a satisfying click when fully connected and best of all can be field re-cabled with a small screwdriver (no soldering).

When used correctly Scotchlocks are very reliable... Choosing the right size is key; for the gauge of the wiring in your box Red Scotchlocks would be the ideal fit (The red colour denotes size - like the red crimps you have used) but Blue should be OK. They must be crimped carefully. Pliers with parallel jaws are ideal for Scotchlocks but those are specialist tools so the largest pair of pliers you can find usually work best. I have used thousands of Scotchlocks over the years. I prefer to solder but that is not always practical or even possible on some large wiring looms. Finally they should be kept dry to prevent corrosion of the differing metal to metal contact of the Scotchlock and Copper cable.

Finally water; Rain and fresh river water should not give any serious problems to a 12v power circuit for short durations but even a hint of salt will allow a big current to flow and corrosion to start in seconds so if you are on the sea keep everything electrical well away from sea water if you want it to last.

CPC and Ebay are a good source of parts at sensible prices.

[ChrisParish]

Neutrik, who make speakon connectors actually have specific power connectors called powercon. They are essentially the same except the keyway is different so you can’t plug the mains into your speakers and blow them up (when using the connectors for their original designed purpose of connecting speakers!)

Powercon / speakon are great connectors. I used them for years when I did outdoor events.

[eddzoid]

This is my version of the same box, which I have just finished. I will be adding a solar panel in the next few weeks.

[Golferboy]

Just began my power box install.. so work in progress folks and also handy for storing my Plotter etc, just awaiting 16 gauge wire coming for the lecky bits. A used Pelican watertight camera case with the foam cut to accommodate the plotter and VHF etc. Sealed Lead Acid battery also just under the paperwork. this gives a wee idea and will post images when all completed.

[eddzoid]

Good job. I eventually did the JDS Outdoors solar paneL mod.

[Golferboy]

Nice one.. i did consider the solar panel but went for the charging option from the suzuki in the end up.

[Golferboy]

Looking good @Golferboy

[Golferboy]

Wee update on the latest addition, After receiving my clamp and holder for the plotter i thought better of it and have gone this route with a Camera clamp and Kirk plate to hold the plotter, hoping this will save me making something to go on the seat and as the plate does not stick out much its all nice and tidy. Clamp at this time is glued on sut may have to bolt it if its not doing the job at a later stage.

Unfortunately what with all this COVID 19 going on my new boat is in the back yard my new Engine is still in the dealers... but looking forward to getting it wet this year sometime..
Stay safe everyone.

[Golferboy]

All up and running , my last piece of waterproof connector arrived today, so just have to await the lockdown ending and get it all aboard.