Wiring the boat - labeling

[Windborn]

I've gotten some good info from forum members on wire and component sources, so I thought I'd take a shot at labeling. I'm looking at using heat shrink labels at various points along wire/cable runs to simplify future troubleshooting. There are a number of labelers out there, and the Kroy K5100 looks like it will do the job. But then $360 is a lot to pay for a one or two project tool. As I'm not the first guy that's waded into these waters, I'm hoping someone might be able to provide some recommendations.

[dhendry]

Consider colored tape as an alternative, it's commonly used in control wiring and is available at commercial electrical suppliers.

[sailingdog]

You can also get numbering labels at most home improvement stores.

What I'd recommend is you get the labels for a Brady cable/wiring labeler and write on them using a ultra fine point Sharpie. The labels are self-fusing and will stick to themselves and become a single piece, much like rescue tape does.

You can also get a Brother P-Touch and use that.

[dohenyboy]

I just use a labeler sold in office supply stores; I think mine is made by Brother. the labels seem to be moderately resistant to water

[Freesail99]

I also use the brother label maker and they do sell different tape for it that is water resistant.

[Sasha_V]

I use a clone of the Brother labeller and clear heat shrink over it.

[capngregg]

Check out this website. Lots of options out there.
Self Laminating Labels, Self Laminating Label, Wrap Around Cable Labels, Wrap Around Lable, Self-Laminating Cable Labels - WireMarkersPlus

[Valiente]

I use a Dymo labeller that takes paper or plastic tape, which itself is either white or clear. I like it because I can type smaller than I can write, and faster, too (it has small but clear fonts).

$39 plus $10 for the tapes.

[zz4gta]

Draw up a wiring schematic. Use different colored wires w/ tracers. No need to label when you have a cheat sheet.

[sailingdog]

Most people don't use different colored wire with tracers, since that drastically increases the costs of wiring a boat. It is far more economical to order one spool or duplex or triple wire and label it properly, than it is to order 100 short lengths of differently colored wires to individualize each run.