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How to Build a Marine Switch Panel or Repair an Existing One

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Whether this is your first panel project or you're a seasoned veteran, this guide will cover some things you may have not considered. We're going to look at some of the more important aspects of a panel project in a step by step process.  Not only will replacing your own panel you save money, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you did it with your own hands and effort.

The first thing you need to decide on is the size and function of your panel. For this guide, we'll be building a sixteen switch main dash panel. Don't worry if your panel is a different size. All the steps and topics we will cover will carry over to projects of other sizes. One important aspect of any project is making sure that you have all the parts and tools ready before you start. Whether you need wire connectors, crimp connectors, or any other electrical connector types. Otherwise you'll be putting your project on hold while you wait for parts and tools to arrive. Before you choose your parts, you need to make a choice. Do you save money now and buy cheaper parts or do you go for quality?

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Tools

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Parts

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Knowledge

With over four decades in the marine industry we can tell you with certainty; "If you skimp on parts now, you will definitely pay for it later."  Build your panel to last. In order to do that you need quality parts. If you download the checklist below, you'll be able to click on the individual parts to be taken to those products. Could we have made this any easier? Now let's look at that list. 

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What You'll Need:

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Panel Blanks

  • 5052 H32 Aluminum
  • Powder Coated on both sides
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Breakers

  • Rugged Thermal Breaker
  • Push-to-Reset for Ease of use
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Boots

  • Protect Breakers
  • Durable for repeated use
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Switches

  • 1,000 of uses
  • Multiple varieties Available

 

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Switch Covers

  • UV Resistant
  • Over 700 options
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Wire jumpers

  • Simplify Installation
  • Save Time & Money
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UL Wire

  • High quality, marine grade
  • Flexible & Durable
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Terminals

  • Easy to use and Install 
  • 100's of options available

 

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Crimper

  • Correct Crimp every time
  • Built for superior quality
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Cable Ties

  • Long lasting Durability
  • Built for ease of use
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Connectors

  • Environmentally sealed
  • Built for longevity & durability
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Heat Shrink

  • Durable for long term use
  • Multiple shrink ratios available

Click HERE for an Easy to Follow Downloadable Version of this List.

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*Pro Days promotional code applies to Pacer Pro customer purchases. Not valid for Wholesale or OEM accounts.


Project Schedule

Each week this month we are going dive deeper and deeper into the steps behind the process. This will finally culminate in a step-by-step guide showing you everything you need to do from start to finish.

 

  • Week 1 = Understanding the project, gathering the parts and tools you'll need

  • Week 2 = Properly using butt splices and other high quality connectors

  • Week 3 = Removing actuators and replacing switch covers

  • Week 4 = Assembly of complete panel, a step-by-step guide

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