electrical distribution panels

[bud37]

While looking at different models before we got the 350, I noticed that the older Santego panels and some others had indicator lights to tell you when a circuit was in use. This is something that I think is a great feature for just glancing at the panel to see what you have turned on......so to the question , has anyone retrofitted something like this, is it even possible without getting a whole new panel ??

[mjk1040]

I would think Bud if you are describing a light at every breaker you most likely would have to replace the panel, or if you had the room, maybe you could drill the holes for each breaker and insert a small light at each breaker. Guess I would have to see one for a better opinion. Mike

[Viper]

Totally doable by drilling holes beside each breaker as long as there is room and doesn't interfere with wiring. If you're going to do it, use LED lamps such as the ones from Blue Sea Systems. You just drill a small hole and push them in. They're a friction fit as long as you use the right size drill bit. https://www.bluesea.com/products/category/36/23/LED_Indicator_Lights

[mjk1040]

Well that beats changing out the entire panel bud!

[Viper]

I already have lamps on mine but the AC indicators are neon so half flicker and the other half don't work. Some of the DC ones are burnt out too so these are another item on my bucket list. When I get into the panel to do them, I'm also going to replace the AC and DC meters with digital units that can provide additional information. I also prefer the option to switch my meters off when I don't need to see what's going on so I'll be installing switches for that and a small LED lighting strip above the panel so I can see what I'm doing without turning on the cabin lights.

[Midnight Sun]

Viper,

Blue Sea makes some really nice stuff, pricey but nice. In fact I ordered the DC one for my battery banks. https://www.bluesea.com/products/catego ... l_Monitors

[Viper]

Ya, those are sweet. I'd be getting the multi-meter versions of AC and DC. I like the State of Charge feature on the DC one, and I like the Frequency feature of the AC one because I like to know what I'm getting from shore power and whether the generator is outputting properly.

[bud37]

Well back from the flu and still recovering from pneumonia that came after........anyway good to be up.....as I remember opening that panel there was very little room, ( I am hoping though to get the lights in there)....gonna have to wait for spring now......gonna do the 6volt thing like Fraser......picking up batteries in a couple weeks then make a box for them, will serve the purpose of being able to sit on it when working in that area......well just an update.....

[feeez]

Please post a pic of the box when you build it.... I might do the same for the same reason.... a place to stand.

Fraser

[bud37]

Source of the post Please post a pic of the box when you build it.... I might do the same for the same reason.... a place to stand.

Fraser

Will do...anything for a fellow Carvonian......