View Full Version : Electrical Panel - Generator Switch Headache
Among the problems I'm currently dealing with is this thing:
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The last time I used this generator (about two months ago now), the switch fell off in my hand. I tried everything I could think of to get it back on the mounting post, but it just spins free in either direction.
I assumed the little nylon teeth inside the knob were worn off, so I ordered two new knobs from Sam's at about $32/ea. Figured I ought to keep a spare aboard. Fast forward to last weekend, when I attempted to install the new knob on the generator switch. It slips right onto the post, and I tightened the screw until it won't tighten anymore...and the knob just spins freely in either direction.
My next step is to take my oscillating tool and try to cut a small notch in the end of the shaft so I can turn it with a flat screwdriver. Anybody else have any clever ideas?
SeaEric
12-29-2023, 03:56 PM
Replace the switch. Be certain that you order the right one with the correct ports on the back. They aren't cheap but if it's coming apart it's probably time.
https://www.bluesea.com/products/9019/AC_Rotary_Switch_-_OFF_%2B_2_Positions_240V_AC_65A
SKYCHENEY
12-29-2023, 04:31 PM
Pull the shaft out of the switch. It should slide out. When you get it out part way, see if you can turn the switch with some pliers/vice grips. If it still doesn't engage, you need a new switch. If you can turn it, it may be a problem with the shaft to knob engagement.
Replace the switch. Be certain that you order the right one with the correct ports on the back. They aren't cheap but if it's coming apart it's probably time.
https://www.bluesea.com/products/9019/AC_Rotary_Switch_-_OFF_%2B_2_Positions_240V_AC_65A
Thanks for the link - saved me a lot of googling. And holy crap you weren't kidding about them not being cheap! On the plus side, while I was poking around I came across a four-position switch (Off, Source 1, Source 2, Source 3) which might work for our setup (we have a 3rd generator installed by previous owner that I currently have no idea how to operate). Would be nice to be able to switch between any of the generators using the same switch.
Although technically I guess I need a five-position unit - Off, Shore, Gen1, Gen2, Gen3. Looks like it's back to google, lol.
Pull the shaft out of the switch. It should slide out. When you get it out part way, see if you can turn the switch with some pliers/vice grips. If it still doesn't engage, you need a new switch. If you can turn it, it may be a problem with the shaft to knob engagement.
Thanks for the tip! Will try this before I go to the trouble of filing a groove in the end of the shaft.
SKYCHENEY
12-29-2023, 04:53 PM
Thanks for the link - saved me a lot of googling. And holy crap you weren't kidding about them not being cheap! On the plus side, while I was poking around I came across a four-position switch (Off, Source 1, Source 2, Source 3) which might work for our setup (we have a 3rd generator installed by previous owner that I currently have no idea how to operate). Would be nice to be able to switch between any of the generators using the same switch.
Although technically I guess I need a five-position unit - Off, Shore, Gen1, Gen2, Gen3. Looks like it's back to google, lol.
Why would you ever need "OFF"?
Why would you ever need "OFF"?
I dunno...but it came from the factory with an "OFF" so I assume I need it for something. There's more than one switching panel...maybe only one can be in use at a time?
I'm still learning about the boat's electrical system, in case that's not obvious.
Boatsb
12-29-2023, 07:23 PM
Someone is about to get hurt.
Stop.
First
the shaft slipped into the switch. It needs to be pulled out and reattached to the knob.
Second
It's not a simple bluesea switch. The bluesea switch is far too small.
Call or email me before something bad happens. It's a 100 amp switch for a reason. I've rewired a few big hatts with new switches and it's not as simple as some think.
Scott 407-739-5450
Boatsb@cfl.rr.com
bigbill
12-29-2023, 09:18 PM
call scott he does this for a living and he knows this sh-t
...Call or email me before something bad happens. It's a 100 amp switch for a reason. I've rewired a few big hatts with new switches and it's not as simple as some think.
Scott 407-739-5450 (tel:407-739-5450)
Boatsb@cfl.rr.com
Yikes. Thanks for the warning and the offer of help. It may be a week or two before I get back to the boat but I'll very likely take you up on the offer.
Andy
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