Replacing Circuit Breaker

[txarmydude]

When I bought my boat, it had 2 bad circuit breakers on it: one for the bilge pump, and one for the NAV lights. They are the push button style breakers.

I am assuming that these are original equipment on my 1977 Cobalt, judging by their condition. The problem is, they don't say what size breaker (ie: 20A, 15A, etc.). They only say 250VDC and 28VAC on them, no other markings. So how do I know which breaker to buy? Any ideas???

 

[NYBo]

Re: Replacing Circuit Breaker

It's unlikely either circuit would require anything larger than a 5 amp breaker.

 

[txarmydude]

Re: Replacing Circuit Breaker

So if I replace it with a 15 Amp, will it be okay, or will it be a fire hazard?

 

[ve3rpm]

Re: Replacing Circuit Breaker

Do not replace it with a really big breaker. Find out the current draw of each item you are dealing with and go from there. If your bilge pump only draws 2 amps, and you wind up with a problem pulling 12 amps, it's time for the fire extinguisher.

 

[txarmydude]

Re: Replacing Circuit Breaker

I am going to go ahead and order a couple of 5 amp circuit breakers and give them a shot. They are only like 4 bucks each, anyway. Thanks!

 

[NYBo]

Re: Replacing Circuit Breaker

Do not replace it with a really big breaker. Find out the current draw of each item you are dealing with and go from there. If your bilge pump only draws 2 amps, and you wind up with a problem pulling 12 amps, it's time for the fire extinguisher.

Not really. A circuit breaker protects the wiring, not the device. As long as the wiring is rated for amperage above that of the breaker, it will be okay. If the device shorts out, it's going to be toast anyway. The idea is to prevent the whole boat from becoming toast if the wires cross.

A possible exception would be electronics that might be repairable if an internal short is limited by a low-amperage fuse or breaker.