Marine - AC or DC ?

[SpcAlan1]

I have zero knowledge of electrical systems.

My Islander 30 has 2 new batteries, with a 'perko' switch ( rotary switch that can select battery 1, 2, or both for cranking the diesel ).

The electrical panel has 6-8 toggle switches ( cabin lights, nav lights, bilge, ect.. ) it is old and needs replaced.

i would like to buy a panel that has the same 6-8 switches on it, but also has a gauge for each battery's level.

I am looking online, and there are a panels that are AC or DC.
Again - I do not know electricity.

The boat is currently on a powered dock, but will be moved off and I will use a solar panel to keep the batteries charged.

Any ideas or examples of what I want?

[HeartsContent]

Yes, you want to hire someone to do this work for you. If you do not understand what you are doing, you could get hurt and the results dangerous.

[SpcAlan1]

Oh. I will DEFINITELY hire someone to re-wire this panel. - I wouldn't touch it.

Blue Sea Systems - DC 5 Position Circuit Breaker Panel With DC Volt an

this is what i am going for here - Know of a better price/suppplier?

[overbored]

Originally Posted by SpcAlan1

Oh. I will DEFINITELY hire someone to re-wire this panel. - I wouldn't touch it.

Blue Sea Systems - DC 5 Position Circuit Breaker Panel With DC Volt an

this is what i am going for here - Know of a better price/suppplier?

try these guys they have very good prices A-Series DC Circuit Breaker Panel

[LakeSuperiorGeezer]

Originally Posted by SpcAlan1

I have zero knowledge of electrical systems.

My Islander 30 has 2 new batteries, with a 'perko' switch ( rotary switch that can select battery 1, 2, or both for cranking the diesel ).

The electrical panel has 6-8 toggle switches ( cabin lights, nav lights, bilge, ect.. ) it is old and needs replaced.

i would like to buy a panel that has the same 6-8 switches on it, but also has a gauge for each battery's level.

I am looking online, and there are a panels that are AC or DC.
Again - I do not know electricity.

The boat is currently on a powered dock, but will be moved off and I will use a solar panel to keep the batteries charged.

Any ideas or examples of what I want?

Get both types.

[mitiempo]

That is a good panel but I would go with Blue Seas 8023, 8 position and without the meters. A separate battery monitor like the Victron BMV-600 will tell you more that a voltmeter and ammeter ever could about the state of your batteries. Both are shown below. Prices are from Jamestown Distributors

Anything connected to the batteries is DC.

[boatpoker]

Don't buy anything until you have consulted an ABYC certified marine electrician. Chances are you will buy inappropriate gear.

[QuickMick]

if you are going to farm out the work to someone, maybe ask their suggestions? or, id just as soon listen to mitempo. he knows his stuff cold

[SpcAlan1]

Good ideas guys. Thanks.
My old Catalina 25 had 1 battery - only ran nav lights - no bilge, nada.

this Islander has 2 batteries - runs everything - volvo diesel, bilge, macerator?, hot water heater, air, ect.... I better learn the basics of powering them.

[QuickMick]

SHERIDON HOUSE Marine Electrical Bible at West Marine