Article by Capt. Steve Katz
Switch it up
Many of these articles are based on local trends in the field of marine service and repair. It seems that at the beginning of every season, after the first few fishing trips, boaters quickly learn that an on-board system has stopped working since last season. While there can be many reasons why an electrical device stops working, it is often as simple as a defective switch causing the malfunction. Whether they control your navigation lights, bilge pump or other electrical accessories, most switches are critically important to fishing and boating.
Instead of just replacing a bad switch, there may be a better one for the application, or even an upgraded switch that may solve a problem with your electrical devices or operation.
The most popular switch function is the SPST or Single Pole, Single Throw. The “pole” refers to the number of individual circuits controlled by the switch. The “throw” refers to the movement of the actuator. A SPST switch has two terminals on the back that are either connected or disconnected depending on the position of the actuator. Other popular types include DPST (double throw, single pole), DPDT (double pole, double throw) and one with a momentary function, that requires the operator to hold the switch in the on position, like a horn switch. This is usually noted on the switch packaging with the momentary function in parentheses, off-(on).
There are many styles of switch actuators, with the toggle and rocker being the two most popular. A toggle switch is operated by a small lever that snaps up or down. A rocker switch is operated by a plastic pad that pivots in the center. There are advantages and disadvantages to both styles. The toggle switch is smaller and can be quickly and easily installed into a round hole and secured with a nut on the threaded switch shaft. Rocker switches are much larger and require a precision cut rectangular hole. A toggle switch is often labeled on the adjacent surface to the switch where a rocker switch can be labeled on the rocker itself. Most rocker switches are illuminated when the circuit is on and can be illuminated for visibility at night. There are only a few specialized toggle switches that are illuminated. Both toggle and rocker switches are suitable for the marine environment, though not all toggle switches are water resistant. A rocker switch by nature is more water resistant since the rocker itself covers the switch body, though most name brand rocker switches are water resistant. There are some toggle style switches that are actually circuit breakers, but are used as a switch. Using a circuit breaker switch solves two needs at the same time and is a simple, safe solution for adding or upgrading an electrical circuit.
If you are replacing the same switch into an existing panel or opening, be sure to get a proper marine grade switch, especially in our area with salt and humidity exposure being a problem. An automotive type of switch may not last long. In recent years, the Carling brand rocker switches have become very popular for marine, automotive and off road use.
If you are upgrading your switch panel, there are many sources that can make once difficult tasks easier. A few internet based companies specialize in custom marine rocker switches and panels. One of these companies will pre-wire your new switch panel for your exact application. Some companies specialize in replacement switch panels for specific boat brands, making an upgrade really fast and simple. .
No longer do you have to re-label or memorize what the switches control. You can now create your own permanent switch labels. One company allows you to custom laser engrave the rocker switch cover with any text you desire, combined with many pre-designed switch icons. The custom engraved switch actuators are $12 or less, plus the cost of the switch body. These companies also make custom panels with or without switches. Most suppliers let you select the size, switch functions, labels and wiring harness you need for your application. For example, a 4 switch, carbon fiber look panel, pre-wired with a harness for fast installation costs about $110.
A trend on new boats and now found in the aftermarket is the Marinco/BEP stainless steel style, round push button switch with an illuminated LED ring inside the switch. These are very slim and present a clean look on a helm or cabin switch panel.
No matter the function or style, replacing or adding a switch to your boat has become much easier and less expensive. Unlimited options for personalization allow you to have the look and function you require at a cost that won’t break the bank.
Captain Steve Katz is the owner of Steve’s Marine Service and holds NMEA, AMEI and NMEA2000 certificates along with ABYC Master Technician certification and factory training from many manufacturers.
