Posted by enggass on 12/01/17 - 10:26 AM
#1
Pardon the ignorance but I have no experience with installing electronics. I have a 1989 Montauk that I plan to upgrade with a Ritchie Compass, Raymarine Finder/Plotter and a VHF Radio. There are many Boat Shops in my area here in Maine to help me, but what should I expect in regards to a reasonable install time? It may require clean-up of what is currently installed - i'm sure. I just have no idea and would like to go into it have some idea... Any and all input greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Posted by gchuba on 12/01/17 - 12:57 PM
#2
A wide open question. I would first determine what your existing wiring is like. Single or dual battery, inline circuit breakers, wire sizing, etc..... I personally have a dual battery system with all my electronics on a dedicated isolated battery. A lot of Montauks have a single battery and I know some members have their electronics run off that battery but have installed a separate switch to activate the electronic panel. High amp draws (motor starting, anchor winch, washdown pumps, etc....) can have a negative affect on electronics. If you have the time, quite a few fellows on the web site have done their own wiring (myself included) as well as electronic installation and, you may want to consider this option. There are numerous ways to install these features and if you are hiring some one else......get a complete schematic and design and run the proposal through the club. I would not hire any one who gives you a flat rate and not describe/itemize the how's and what's. Blue Sea has quite a few schematics available for you to research and carry quality circuitry.
Posted by enggass on 12/02/17 - 7:09 PM
#3
So fortunately, when asking a local boatbuilder (father of my sons friend) who he would recommend to help, he offered to help me rig everything. So not only will I save money, I will learn how to do it at the same time!! I will of course compensate him fairly. So now my question turns to layout. The 3 main items I’ll be adding to console are Ritchie D-50 compass, Raymarine plotter/finder and a VHF Radio. How have you all done it. I’m thinking Compass center console but am worried that a VHF next to it will interfere. Should I put compass in front of steering, then Raymarine, then VHF (left to right)? Or should I consider putting VHF flush mount on front of console above lower teak cabinet opening. I’ll also be putting a bilge pump(switch panel on console) in, a 12v port for charging items(like a cigarette lighter port), and moving battery under console
Last question: on my console panel are two pull knobs- one for lights and one for accessories. What would you consider accessories?
Feedback please. Steve.