Adding a toggle switch for lights

[lakefisherman]

My 14' mirrocraft has 18 gauge wire for the lights. (jumper cable type clamps to the battery)
I have a toggle switch that has 10 gauge wire. Is there any problem connecting the 2 different size wires. How do I do it, do I need water proof connectors or a box for the switch? Can the switch be exposed to the elements?

 

[jomadav]

Re: Adding a toggle switch for lights

No, there isn't a problem connecting both gauges of wire. BUT - remember that you are limited to the current rating of the smaller (higher gauge number) of the two wires. This will affect your fuse size, should be sized to the smaller wire. Also, you should run the smaller gauge for as short of a distance as possible to limit volt-drop accross the run. i.e. the longer the run - the more current consumed. As for the connectors, I am a solder only guy on auto and especially boat connections and use 3 coats of liquid electrical tape applied with care. If that doesn't work for you use water-proof butt connecters and tape up well. Good luck .

 

[lakefisherman]

Re: Adding a toggle switch for lights

The wires on the switch are smaller and about five inches long.
This is for my running lights only, I need a fuse?

I bought the switch at home depot.

 

[RicMic]

Re: Adding a toggle switch for lights

Its a bit of a pain to connect #10 to #18, you'd have to solder or put spade or ring crimp on terminals or the appropriate size on each wire. You can use a toggle switch, I just did that on my jon boat, but it needs to be a marine grade which are plated brass, or it will rust very quickly. You can get a small box at an electronics store, but I just wrapped a piece of poly foam around the terminals and taped it up and then wire tied it under a gusset.