Connecting a rocker switch panel on Merc 100

[CM]

I am trying to install a 4 gang rocker panel on my center consol. Do I want the power that goes to the panel to be turned only when the ignition is on or do I want power going to it all the time? On my ignition, Question2, I have 6 or 7 seven wires coming from the big black cable from the engine, that leads to a plastic plug , with 4 or 5 posts, that is not connected to anything. Is one of these wires a power source and one a ground? Do I need to by another plug that will fit into the one already there? Final question, I have a yellow/black wire coming from the backside of the ignition. The wire is capped off with a plastic stopper, what is this wire? ground?<br /><br />Thanks for the help.<br /><br />CM

 

[snapperbait]

Re: Connecting a rocker switch panel on Merc 100

Do I want the power that goes to the panel to be turned only when the ignition is on or do I want power going to it all the time?

Power all the time.. A pair (one positive, one negative) of marine grade, heavy gauge (minimum 10awg), wires straight from the battery with a master disconnect swtich would be preferred..<br /><br />

Question2, I have 6 or 7 seven wires coming from the big black cable from the engine, that leads to a plastic plug , with 4 or 5 posts, that is not connected to anything. Is one of these wires a power source and one a ground? Do I need to by another plug that will fit into the one already there?

I'm sure there are power and ground wires there, but I would advise not use them for anything other than powering the engines gauges... Maybe some disconnected warning buzzer wires there too, I don't know...<br /><br />

I have a yellow/black wire coming from the backside of the ignition. The wire is capped off with a plastic stopper, what is this wire? ground?<br />

If that wire is comming out of terminal marked "B" on the back of the ignition switch, the yellow/black tracer wire should be connected to the neutral saftey switch.. Will your engine start while it's in gear?