hull grounding

[corzy]

Hey guys, just wondering if there is any reason to not have my hull grounded? the switch box is mounted on the side of the boat, it would be a weak ground since its just touching, (bolted on its side to wood) but the back touches the side of the aluminum.

 

[glenn property of pam]

Re: hull grounding

alot of aluminum boats if tested are connected to dc negative (mostly not on purpose) which should not cause a real problem unless the boat is used as a path for the dc negative then there is a chance that electrolysis could cause week spots in the aluminum or contacting points over a period of time. things like using a boat for the dc negative on a trolling motor in salt water would be a real bad idea. someone smarter than me could explain it better. why is the switch box grounded (connected to dc negative in the first place)

 

[corzy]

Re: hull grounding

its supposed to be, not sure why, im not an electrician (just act like one at home haha) im pretty sure it will be fine, just as long as i dont have a positive short touch the boat...thanks for the reply, and ya that makes a lot of sence about the salt water, but im in fresh, and my trolling motor is a 2 stroke no power to it.
thanks Glen

 

[SingleShot]

Re: hull grounding

In all reality you don't need the hull connected to the battery neg terminal as the motor has done this already. All your electrical devices should have the return path or (ground) connected at the battery negative buss or terminal. Here is a thread that should answere your question in some detail.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=290541

JK