Warning on older B33 electrical!!

[lobsta1]

Rich's ??? about the bilge pump wiring reminded me to post about a potential problem I came across. On our older boats, Bertram used about 8 terminal strips under the lower helm to terminate all the wiring. The problem is that Bert used SPADE lugs, not ring terminals. I just had a problem with the domestic water pump. Turned out the pump & switch were fine. Even though I was reading the proper voltage at the pump wiring, the ground wasn't good enough. After a lot of digging I finally found a grd terminal strip buried off to the side under all the wires. It was a loose spade connection. While I was under there I ended up replacing another three connections. I also found out I had one DANGEROUS setup when I heard a sizzling, crackling sound. The only thing I had turned on was a 13 watt flourescent droplight. The 120V neutrals were on another spade terminal strip. The 13 watt draw from the light was enough to cause the associated loose spade connection to start burning. I've got a new IR temp. reader on order. When it comes in I intend to turn everything electrical on & start scanning all my wiring & connections for hot spots. Al

[jeff]

I have not had any wires burn on my '77 but I have had several of the blade connections break one side off and lose connection. The age and heat seems to make them britle. It is diffently some thing to watch.

[lwrenn]

Have had push on terminals go bad on flybridge. Captain Larry Wren 305-360-4900 www.apirateschoice.com [img]http://www.bertram33.com/photogallery/p ... Choice.jpg[/img]