Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: 2013 Montauk, GPS draws current?
Posted by Windsurfer on 05/30/17 - 10:24 AM
#1
Just bought a 2013 Montauk...really nice. I noticed that the Garmin GPS is wired directly to the battery along with the VHF. Much to my surprise (confirmed with a meter), the GPS draws a small amount of current even when it is off. Is this normal?
Allan
Posted by Phil T on 05/30/17 - 11:47 AM
#2
Yes.
Most would not wire the the electronics to the battery directly, if so, add a master on/off switch.
Posted by Windsurfer on 05/30/17 - 12:11 PM
#3
I'm not the original owner but it looks like whaler (or dealer) installed equipment. I agree with you
Posted by gchuba on 05/31/17 - 6:18 AM
#4
I am not familiar with the electrical lay out for your Montauk but my guess is you have a dash panel with switches that also act as circuit breakers. I personally am not a big fan of that arrangement (personal choice) because tricky to match breaker with additional accessories (among other reasons). If you have a panel....... is it hot wired to the battery or do you also have a 40amp or 50 amp breaker in line? If you go with an additional switch, wire it to the inline main service breaker. If you do not have the service breaker do install one in case you have issues with your switch panel. Either way you need fuses for the radio and GPS but I assume that you have inline heavily jacketed fuses on the + wire to the units. A good idea if you install the switch to keep it in the off position when starting the motor to prevent "spike" damage to those accessories.
Garris