switches not working

[riley4]

Hoping someone can steer in the right direction. I have an '86 Cruisers Laser I purchased last year and am now just getting to the electrical system. Right now the only component that works through the switches is the stern light. The lights have the 3-way switch and in the other 2 positions the bow lights do not come on. Also on the switch panel not working are the blower, bilge pump and horn. The radio and the interior cabin lights wired directly through the circuit board and without a panel switch are working.

I know there are probably many possible sources for the switches not working, but is there a single issue on the switch panel that would cause all the rest to not be working, or do I have to look at each switch/circuit individually? Thank you, in advance.

 

[boat1010]

Re: switches not working

Just get yourself your tester and a bucket of patience and head to one of your switches. If there is a common problem that will lead you to the same place. Take your time and think about what you are finding. It could be you have lost a positive or negative somewhere along the line. Or like you said it could be the switches themselves. You won't know till ya get started. Best of luck. If you get into it and have more questions then post what you have found and someone should be able to help you through that.. Happy hunting!!!

 

[Silvertip]

Re: switches not working

Since the stern light works, that says power is getting from the battery to the fuse panel, to the Nav/Anchor switch, and out to at least the stern light. The NAV light (bow light) may just need a new bulb. The socket for that light may also be corroded. Take it apart and inspect. Turn on the switch and check for power in the socket. The ground wire for that light may also be disconnected. As for the other devices that don't work, it is very likely not the switches but the power to those switches, or the devices themselves that are not working. You need to determine if the device itself is working and you can do that by wiring it directly to the battery. If it's ok, then the wiring is the issue. Rarely is the switch the cause of electrical problems. It is almost always corroded connections or connections that have simply popped off their terminals.

 

[riley4]

Re: switches not working

Thanks to both of you. I'll try those things tomorrow and get back with you.