Terminal block

shantijwk · #1 (**permalink**) 02-20-2007

Last season I installed all the usual masthead gear on my new to me 1977 O'Day 27. Wind, VHF, masthead navigation lights - there are at least 8 - 10 wires. For the sake of salvaging a sailing season and to allow seasonal mast stepping, I ran all wires to an open terminal block screwed to the bulkhead below the mast and then sent them wherever they needed to go - instruments, VHF, panel. This spring I will replace the bulkhead due to wood wasting from mast leakage, a problem I also plan to take care of before the spring launch.
My question; Is there an enclosed style terminal block to connect the wires to. I have looked thru the Blue Sea catalog and didn't find anything that seemed suitable. Suggestions and recommendations please.
Wayne
S/V Shanti
[Sanskrit for "Peace"]
Lake Ontario

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 02-20-2007

There are some fuse type blocks that you could use as a terminal block that have covers...

k1vsk · #3 (**permalink**) 02-20-2007

My son uses these on his boat for the same purpose. Allows easy separation and some are watertight/

http://www.ebyelectro.com/pluggable/toc_pg.asp

Loewe · #4 (**permalink**) 02-20-2007

Hey Wayne, We used trailer light plugs. They come in 4 and 5 pin styles and are pretty easy to use. In fact on a 76' O'day 27 I used to have we put the connections inside the base of the mast on top of the step. Raise the mast a hand width unplug and off she goes. Used the gel style corrosion preventer on all the contacts and the rubber lips of the plugs. Good luck with the project.
Regards,
Red