Master power switch
I did a search and didn’t find a concise answer to my question about the master power switch. If I hit the master power switch do I need to turn the dual battery switch to the off position when the boat is not in use?
You do not need to kill the dual battery switch if you don’t want too. I turn mine off at dual battery switch just eliminate any chance of a dead battery. I also have a battery tender installed that is on when boat is not in use.
Potomacbassin’
Well-Known Member
Not an electrical expert and have not seen a Bennington wiring diagram, but.
Killing the main battery switch will ensure nothing drains your batteries. Engine will not start and nothing will/should work.
Master power switch at helm kills your accessories, but if the battery switch is on your engine will trim and start. Fuel pump and gauges will power up and perhaps some other systems wired prior to the master switch or powered from the alternator on the motor.
My boat has one, but personally don’t have a use for it since I always switch off power at the battery.
ILLINOIS AVE
Well-Known Member
100% the above two Комментарии и мнения владельцев. Shut off the battery at the battery switch. There are still open circuits if you just use the helm switch. And as Potomacbassin’ stated, if ANYTHING else is wired prior to the helm master switch, they will still potentiall draw power. Ask me how I know.
Use that battery off switch and then you have zero worries.
Jeff Smith Cottage on Houghton Lake, Michigan 2017 24′ SSBXP with SPS package 200hp Mercury Verado Pro
Types of Marine Battery Switches
Battery switches or “master disconnect” switches are a common item in marine systems. These battery switches are used to cut all power from a battery bank and connected loads.
These devices are very versatile and can be used in any circuit when performing maintenance or an emergency shut down. Very often you will see the placement of these switches between inverter(s) and a bank of batteries.
Below are some of the most common styles:
Single On/Off – Shop Here.
3 Position – used to shut off or switch from one bank of batteries to a second.
4 Position – used to shut off, switch from one bank to a second, or combine the two.
How Does a Battery Switch Work?
For the purposes of this article, let’s discuss one of the most common battery switches you’ll see on the market: the 4 Position, or “1, 2, 12, Off” switch. Sometimes called the 12 or an “ALL” switch.
If you have this switch, you probably have two or more battery banks (usually a house bank and an engine bank). When the switch points at “1,” the power draw connects to that specific battery bank. While it’s common for “1” to connect to the starting battery, every boat is different depending on its wiring. Thus, when the battery switch points at “1,” you’re using power from just one battery bank.
When the marine battery switch points at “2,” you’re drawing power from the other battery bank. Again, most electricians wire “2” to the house battery bank, but there’s no way to know for sure without labels. You can also investigate the wiring yourself. If you’re using “12” or “ALL,” you’re drawing battery power from both battery banks simultaneously. Also, both of your battery banks connect to one another. While this may seem like the optimal choice, it comes with its disadvantages.
Lastly, “Off” is pretty self-explanatory. It means that your alternator isn’t charging your batteries and that you can’t draw power from your batteries. Nevertheless, your batteries will charge either way if you’re connected to shore power. Now, let’s take a look at when to use these settings.
Why You Need a Marine Battery Switch on Your Boat
Having a marine battery switch on your boat allows you to control your electricity usage, especially when it comes to your battery storage. For example, if you plan on leaving your boat for a long time, you’ll probably want to switch your battery switch to “Off.” As we mentioned before, small electricity drains can slowly deplete your batteries. After several months of sitting, you may return to find your batteries completely dead.
→ Can You Leave Your Marine Batteries In Your Boat Over Winter? Read our article for proper storage techniques.
Marine battery switches are also crucial for shutting down power for safely performing any sort of boat electrical upgrades or repairs. The risk of shorting out or shock is greatly reduced when you can know for sure power isn’t flowing through wires or cables.
over, selecting your battery switch to draw power from a specific battery bank can help preserve the other battery bank. For instance, if you choose “2” and only draw power from your house batteries, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have plenty of energy storage in your starting battery. Thus, if you find your house batteries depleted, you can change your battery switch to “12” or “ALL” and use your starter battery power in an emergency, and vice versa.
This brings us to our final point: Beware of using “12” or “ALL” for long periods. This means that both of your battery banks are draining. You don’t want to be in the middle of the ocean with no way to start your engine!
Do All Boats Have a Battery Switch?
Not all boats have marine battery switches, but almost all boaters could benefit from one. Because boats have so many electrical components (trolling motors, fish finders, radios, etc.), many have multiple battery banks regardless of whether they’re a “house” boat.
Marine battery switches allow you to choose which battery bank you’re depleting at one time. They allow you to transfer batteries if you completely drain a certain bank. Thus, if your boat doesn’t already have a marine battery switch, you may want to consider installing one.
→ Have you completely drained your marine batteries before? Here’s how to choose the best marine battery charger for your boat.
How The Boat Key Switch Works
The key switch is basically just a component that controls power from one wire to another.
So there is always power sitting at a key switch when the battery switch on the boat is turned on.
It shows you how boat battery switches operate and how to wire them up!
But with those switches on that power is sitting at the key.
When you turn the key to the “on” position, the switch connects two of those wires, allowing that power to then flow back to your boat’s engine.
Then when you turn the switch to the start position. It connects another wire to that power, which goes to the starter to start the engine.
Then once the engine is started and running, when you turn the switch to the off position, it disconnects all of these wires.
Cutting the power to the engine, and turning it off.
Symptoms Of A Bad Ignition Switch On An Outboard
The symptoms that you will see happening on your boat when your ignition switch starts to go bad.
Are the same three things from the introduction.
The outboard doesn’t make any noise when you turn the key, the engine doesn’t shut off when you turn the key off, or the engine will just completely shuts off instantly when it is running.
When the key switch goes bad on the boat and you turn the key on. If the engine doesn’t make any sounds, like the fuel pumps don’t come on, or the computer doesn’t turn on, moving the throttle plates and whatnot.
Then the key isn’t allowing that power to flow through it to get to the engine.
And vice versa, if you turn the key to the start position and it doesn’t allow the starter to engage.
Then the key isn’t allowing power to flow through it to the starter which starts the engine.
And this is the same situation when we go to turn the engine off.
The key switch doesn’t cut the power off to these circuits that it has connected.
Then there is one other situation, where the key switch is failed internally and has all these wires connected all the time.
And in this instance, when you turn the battery switch on and it feeds power to the ignition switch.
You might find that the engine will just start up all on its own!
How Do You Test An Ignition Switch On A Boat?
So now you might be asking yourself how you can test the switch if you are encountering any of these issues.
And this is where you will need to do some investigating outside of this article. Because you will need to have the key switch diagram to do these testings.
Here are a few of the most common brand diagrams:
The most common test is going to be doing a continuity test on your key switch.
Where we are going to use a voltage meter set to the ohms scale, and see if the wires are connected or not.
When they are supposed to be connected, and disconnected when they are supposed to be disconnected.
Most keys are going to be either a three-position or a four-position switch.
Where we will have an “OFF” position, an “ON” position, and a “START” position, then the fourth position is going to be an “ACCESSORY” position.
Which is used for powering up accessories with the key switch, but not having to leave it in the “ON” position. Providing power to the engine.
Some key switches are going to also include a lanyard portion to the switch. But you can learn all about lanyards and kill switches here.
To test the switch, we just need to go off of the diagram for the key switch we are testing. And make sure that each circuit is connected and disconnected the way it is supposed to be.
Which will again, differ, based on what brand of ignition switch you have in your boat, based on the wire colors.
Can You Bypass The Key Switch?
Of course, absolutely, yes, you can bypass an ignition key switch. But doing so does run a risk of other issues that you can encounter.
Like how you are going to turn the engine off once it’s on after bypassing the switch.
As well as potential fire issues, exposed wiring, and connecting other wires that shouldn’t be connected.
But bypassing can be done.
Basically, you will need to use the same diagram that goes to whatever brand ignition switch you have.
To see what wire has the 12-volt power, or battery voltage on it.
To connect it to the “ON” and the “START” wire of the ignition switch.
Which will bypass the switch and allow you to start the engine in a pinch if you need to.
How to Install a Battery Disconnect Switch on a Boat in 7 Easy Steps
A boat battery shut off switch is an excellent item to use when you want to safeguard your boat. When it comes to emergencies, the marine battery on off switch will be of great help.
Knowing how to install a battery disconnect switch on a boat makes every boating trip safe and worthwhile. This prevents starting or continuing to operate the boat unintentionally. You can do this marine battery disconnect switch installation quickly and easily.
- Tools You’ll Need for the Installation
- 1. Battery Switch
- 2. Phillips Screwdriver and Screws
- 3. Socket Wrench
- 4. Silicone Caulking
- 5. Drill Bits and Drill
- 6. Safety Insulating Gloves
- Step 1: Purchase A Battery Kill Switch
- Step 2: Disconnect Both Battery Wires On The Boat’s Battery
- Step 3: Remove The Battery Ground And Solenoid Connection
- Step 4: Connect The Kill Switch Wires
- Step 5: Reconnect The Battery Terminals
- Step 6: Determine the location of the kill switch
- Step 7: Connect the Kill Switch to the Frame
- Step 8: Connect the Battery Cables
Tools You’ll Need for the Installation
Battery Switch
A dual circuit plus battery switch is installed (OFF-ON-COMBINE) to separate a motor battery from the boat’s housing bank. Check that the engine’s battery is linked to the starter when switching ON.
Ensure the battery has housing loads connected to the housing battery bank. Also, disconnect switches for batteries are heavy-duty devices. Purchase only the correct goods and check the following:
- The switch amperage should be greater than the battery ampere.
- The usual battery voltage is 12 Volts minimum for boats.
- Terminals made of brass or stainless steel work well.
- Switches having an IP65 rating can resist severe weather conditions.
Phillips Screwdriver and Screws
These screwdrivers are designed to accommodate Phillips head screws that feature a cross-shaped recess, thus the term cross screwdriver. They were created to deal with increased torsion.
Meanwhile, Phillips screw heads provide for a tighter fit than flat head screws. That is why most manufacturers and handymen use this tool. The screw’s size is commonly tiny and light. The key is to use a screwdriver that is compatible with the kind and screw size you are using.
Socket Wrench
A socket wrench’s job is to loosen or tighten connectors like nuts and bolts, without having to reposition the tool just on the fastener. This is necessary when turning a wrench in a complete circle isn’t possible. It may help shorten the process of tightening battery and terminal fasteners.
Socket wrenches also have a long pole to which several size sockets may be connected to tighten various size bolts. As a result, it’s important to select the correct socket size for the specific fastener.
Silicone Caulking
Caulk or is a substance used to seal gaps or seams in different constructions and pipes against leaking. The gel-like material will be pushed into the gaps shaped like wedges between the surface of your boat and the screws attached to put the switch in place.
You can use the tip of your finger when smearing the caulk around the screwed areas. Ensure there are no gaps where water can come in. Also, you can try putting a dab before you screw the switch on the surface, then squeezing in between when tightening the screws.
Drill Bits and Drill
Drill bits are used to make holes in a number of different materials, including boats’ surfaces. This tool will be used to bore holes that match the sizes of the switch’s screw holes. It will also help easily screw the kill switch in place, securing it from moving around.
Ensure buying the appropriate sizes. If it’s too big, the drilled hole will be too loose for the screw to hold the switch to the boat’s surface. But if it’s too small, it will be too tight for the screws to dig and may cause rougher edges, which, in turn, can scrape the wirings of the switch or appeal less on the boat.
Safety Insulating Gloves
Rubber insulating gloves while dealing with battery cables and terminals may be the essential piece of protection to wear. Electrical safety gloves must have dielectric characteristics, physical strength, flexibility, and durability to be effective.
This is because lead-acid batteries contain explosive hydrogen-oxygen fumes and sulfuric acid, which may inflict serious burns. When working or handling a lead-acid battery, take these measures to prevent risk and harm. When there are electric leakages as you work with the battery and disconnect switch.
Here are the Seven Steps to Follow on Installing the Battery Kill Switch to Your Boat
Step 1: Purchase A Battery Kill Switch
When installing the battery switch, the kind of switch you purchase must be carefully considered. Look in the owner’s handbook for information about the boat’s battery and other components’ power output. This should be matched up with the battery kill switch so you won’t encounter a few problems.
In case you have lost the battery’s manual or handbook, don’t hesitate to ask for advice from the right people. Because having the right battery kill switch ensures that it matches the voltage flow capacity of your switch. over, going over what is recommended means you’ll unnecessarily spend additional money.
Step 2: Disconnect Both Battery Wires On The Boat’s Battery
When working on electrical components, you should always separate both the negative and positive wires from the battery rods to guarantee your safety. Cleaning the connections, wires, and connecting points while the cables are disconnected from the battery rods is a good idea.
Also, don’t forget to take photos or sketch anything so you know battery orientation and what wires go back where. This will ensure that you will reconnect the wires on the right connectors, especially if this is your first time. Plus, you don’t have to rummage in your brain later about what goes where.
Step 3: Remove The Battery Ground And Solenoid Connection
Your battery’s negative terminal is connected to the body of the boat. It acts as the current return route. That is why you must disconnect the cable that connects the batteries to the boat’s body. While installing the switch, it may avoid any unintentional short circuits.
If you don’t have an originally installed switch, you’ll need to use the battery switch the bypass of the boat starter’s connection. Disconnect the connector between both the starting and the battery solenoid first.
Step 4: Connect The Kill Switch Wires
You may now set up the switch after removing the terminal. Connect it to a cable as well as the battery terminal using wire. Then, the length between your switch and the main battery should be measured. Cut a cable the same length as the first.
Also, it’s simpler to handle your wires if you put the batteries together. Cut a portion of another wire again from the switch disconnector to the solenoid starter. Keep in mind that the battery connection may be rated higher than the other electrical cables.
Step 5: Reconnect The Battery Terminals
Reconnect the positive connection to the battery terminal. Ensure that it is securely fastened without damaging any one of the wires. For reconnecting the positive wires, assume you’re working with a three-terminal switch. Connect each battery’s positive terminals to the switch’s two inlets. It’s an important step because no battery cables should be connected to the switch’s output terminal.
After that, connect the solenoid to the switch output terminal. To avoid any chances of accidents caused by sudden electric flow, make sure that the switch is now turned off. Then, connect each battery’s negative terminals to the ground pin or the boat’s body.
Step 6: Determine the location of the kill switch
To avoid electrical leakages, the switch should be placed closer to your batteries. Above all, it should be in a convenient position for the boat user. By making it so, the kill switch is easily found in case of emergencies without causing you any panic tendency.
Also, when the switch is near the battery, you can use less cable. This saves you money, time, and effort from doing complex power switches.
Step 7: Connect the Kill Switch to the Frame
Mark the position of the screw holes in the battery switch housing using a marker. Drill holes and ensure that any extrusions that remain are removed. Line up the battery switch holes with the slots you drilled and fasten them with the provided screws.
Apply a smear of the silicone caulk to the wire connections to serve as a waterproofing agent and prevent the wire connections from corroding and falling out.
Step 8: Connect the Battery Cables
You may now reconnect the battery terminals to the battery poles once the battery disconnect switch has been fitted. Then, do some testing to see if it works by turning on your boat’s engine then turning the kill switch. If the boat’s engine shuts down as expected, it works perfectly fine. Otherwise, you need to turn off the kill switch and check the connection of the cables.
How to Fix No Power to Ignition Switch?
Sometimes, You are not in a situation to replace the ignition switch immediately. Then fixing it is the only solution momentarily. If your ignition switch has no power, there is a way to fix it. Which is;
You will need a multimeter to take a reading of your ignition switch. Ensure to take it to the start position before you take reading. If it’s turned off then you will not get any reading.
Once you get the reading one, observe whether the reading is over 9.5V(DC) or not. If the reading shows over 9.5V, your ignition switch is having sufficient electrical flow going into it.
Fix the ignition switch back into its original position. Then restart your boat. It should start working again. If your boat does not start, replacing is the only solution.
In cases such as this, if you are offshore, then immediately call for help.
FAQs
How do I know if my ignition switch has gone bad?
To determine if your ignition switch has gone bad or not, turn your ignition at first. Then with a multimeter determine the voltage that is going into it. If the reading is over 9.5V, then restart the engine again. If this test fails, you have voltage loss between the battery and the starter.
What problems do ignition switches cause?
The first problem that you will face is the inability to deliver power to the starter motor. Also, sufficient power won’t reach the ignition system and other engine functions. But they might be caused by other factors such as dead batteries or engine difficulties themselves.
How do you bypass an Ignition Switch?
Connect both positive sides of the terminal of the battery and the ignition coil. Also, find the starter solenoid. Then connect the solenoid to the positive terminal battery. After that, unplug the ignition switch wire from the solenoid. Finally, short the solenoid’s terminal and then reach the point where the ignition switch is connected.
How long do ignition switches last?
Generally speaking, if you use your boat regularly and keep up with maintenance, your ignition switch should last between 5-8 years. However, if you don’t use your boat often or don’t keep up with maintenance, your ignition switch may only last 3-5 years. Additionally, if your boat is kept in a salt water environment, the lifespan of your ignition switch will be shortened due to corrosion.
Endnote
So this is all we had on boat ignition switch problems and how to fix them. I hope you have a better understanding of what you need to do if you face it.
Fixing it yourself might be an efficient way to do it. But it has electricity which can be lethal. So, do follow safety measures when you are working with electronics.
Good luck with your ignition switch. Until then, have a beautiful day.
I’m Liam Jackson, the proud owner and driving force behind KayakPaddling.net. Born somewhere in the expansive beauty of the United States, I’ve nurtured a lifelong passion for kayaking and fishing that has led me to explore the far corners of our nation’s waterways.