The panels were the part I was looking forward to the most. I was able to score a deal on two barely used Blue Sea Systems panels from my favorite used boat parts dealer and the battery monitor was an Amazon return that was fully tested by Bay Marine Supply (highly recommend these guys!). So, my design was based around these two panels. I decided to move my AC panel from under the galley sink to a location next to my new DC panel. It will require a junction box and a little bit of wiring, but I think I'll be glad I did as it will free up some space and make it easier to access.
My decisions around having a fuse AND a breaker on some of the connections had to do with manufacturer recommendations on the devices and my desire to make sure they don't fry even if the proper breaker for the wire size is 15A.
For construction, I took some ACX plywood and epoxied it before painting. Then, made the cutouts for the panels. Each panel will sit on a frame that projects out from the wall about 2" to give some space behind for the bus bars and terminal blocks.
Here's the current state of each of the panels. Meanwhile, I'm getting the wiring on the boat ready to receive these all while trying not to break my ability to sail the boat.
My decisions around having a fuse AND a breaker on some of the connections had to do with manufacturer recommendations on the devices and my desire to make sure they don't fry even if the proper breaker for the wire size is 15A.
For construction, I took some ACX plywood and epoxied it before painting. Then, made the cutouts for the panels. Each panel will sit on a frame that projects out from the wall about 2" to give some space behind for the bus bars and terminal blocks.
Here's the current state of each of the panels. Meanwhile, I'm getting the wiring on the boat ready to receive these all while trying not to break my ability to sail the boat.
