What is this control for

[Jims43DC]

1980 43' DC, I have figured out almost all the systems on this new to us boat. all that is except this control that is on the starboard side next to helm, the two round items below are the high water alarms for the bilge. I have not identified what the push pull switch operates or what the rheostat control is. I have not been able to find it in the wiring diagram although it looks like original. I have not yet pulled the switches to chase out the wires. any help would be appreciated Thanks

 

[MadHatter53]

It might be for speakers, it has level control and db levels on it. The switch might turn them on/off.

 

[Jims43DC]

It might be for speakers, it has level control and db levels on it. The switch might turn them on/off.

I thought maybe speakers also but there are no speakers on the sun deck nor evidence of them ever being any.

 

[Dazed338]

It might be for speakers, it has level control and db levels on it. The switch might turn them on/off.

I second that Volume control, for VHF or Sound system. Switch could be as well.

 

[SEVEN]

Volume control for stereo system

 

[Top Hatt Craig]

Turn on your windless master switch then try the push-pull.

 

[dottieshusband]

Intensity control for the flux capacitor!

 

[MadHatter53]

Having the alarms below makes me think it’s volume for them and the switch could be for the reset/silence. I think it’s time for you to go digging.

 

[jrbrein]

On these old boats, it is likely the rotary switch to nowhere.

Jon

 

[jim rosenthal]

It's a volume pot for a nonstereo speaker, and it's probably not connected to anything. Many of these boats had speakers all over the boat when they were new; at least you could turn them down in some areas of the boat.

 

[Play'N Hooky Too]

Based on my experience with an old boat with more than one PO, I would be willing to bet that when you start chasing out the wiring you locate the bitter end dangling in a compartment or space visually accessible only by using a bore scope or the camera on you cell phone.

 

[oscarvan]

Many of these boats had speakers all over the boat when they were new; at least you could turn them down in some areas of the boat.

The two on the fly bridge and the back deck are post period. The two in the salon, galley, mid stateroom and master stateroom are original. All the lower deck pairs have volume reducers. (Can't go higher). There is a chrome panel with power on/off and switches for the four zones (upper deck, back deck, salon and lower deck.) All of it works. I have an iPad with Radio Paradise plumbed in to it. It's awesome.