helm microswitch

[nybor]

Am I the only person that thinks of my lovely boat as a "whack-a-mole" vessel? EVERY TIME I fix something, a new something pops up. So.....
my 50 amp (sorry it might be a 60) died and I ordered a new one from Catalina Direct. They sent me a 100 amp saying it was much better (less load on the engine..). Anyway, installed it and it seemed ok for awhile. However, yesterday, I started the engine, ran it up to 1400 rpm and all of a sudden all the gauges died. Shut it off, and pushed the little reset button and started it again. The same thing happened.

I looked at the Universal manual (parts one) and didn't see it listed unless it was a "switch". I assumed (assume?) the button was a circuit breaker that overloaded (maybe age or the higher output of the alt. But I can't find a number or nameplate on it if that is the culprit.

Anyone have an idea on what it is, where can I buy it?

THANKS SO MUCH FOR THIS FORUM

dave bloomquist

[nybor]

sigh........ So, my last post, I thought the white little button on the helm panel was a micro-switch. Nope, it is a 10 amp circuit breaker. I installed a new one and ALSO, removed the 105 amp alternator and put in a regular 50-55 amp one (the standard one).

Started the engine and after a minute the circuit breaker popped again.... So strange that when I tried the 105 amp it was fine for maybe an hour, then the next day, the breaker started popping. So SOMETHING happen to the circuitry. I keep wondering if it is a ground problem. Where is the grounding cable located? I will check that but if looks good, I'd better call Saul...... (well, Dennis the electrical guy might help more...)

thanks and let me know when I can send in some $$ to help out the new Moderator....

dave