Some of my electronics, like my anchor, aren’t working. I connected the motor to a battery and it worked so the issue isn’t the motor. It’s a 2007 Sea Ray Sundancer 240. I’m thinking of rewiring the entire dashboard, replace all switches, replace the fuse box, put in new wires. The wiring is a mess. Some exposed wires lead to nowhere. Is there special wires I need to buy. Where do I start? Seems overwhelming but I have had so many issues with this boat that I want a clean break. Thanks
Generally speaking, the setup you have has been very reliable since you already have switches and not the electronic keypad setup. And Sea Ray's wiring is pretty decent - although not as neat as it could be... but not all that bad, either. They do a good job of color/data coding their wires to match up with the electrical wiring diagrams in your manual, too.
BUT, it sounds like you are dealing with the dreaded "PO" variable... "Previous Owner"
Since a windlass was never an option on that boat, someone has obviously been in there before - possibly a few times. That said, it might make more sense to just take some time and make sense of what's there. The switches/fuse boxes are actually quite well made.
However, to answer your question about wiring - if you're going to do it, upgrade to tinned, marine wire. Ancor is an excellent manufacturer of top quality supplies. This would include butt/spade connectors - and you might as well use the ones with adhesive lined shrink tubing already attached - and get some heat shrink tubing (again, adhesive lined) as well. Don't skimp here - there is a difference! Also, stick with butt connectors and a GOOD crimper (NOT the kind that comes in the cheapie little kit with the cheapie connectors) - stay away from soldering.
BUT, it sounds like you are dealing with the dreaded "PO" variable... "Previous Owner"
Since a windlass was never an option on that boat, someone has obviously been in there before - possibly a few times. That said, it might make more sense to just take some time and make sense of what's there. The switches/fuse boxes are actually quite well made.However, to answer your question about wiring - if you're going to do it, upgrade to tinned, marine wire. Ancor is an excellent manufacturer of top quality supplies. This would include butt/spade connectors - and you might as well use the ones with adhesive lined shrink tubing already attached - and get some heat shrink tubing (again, adhesive lined) as well. Don't skimp here - there is a difference! Also, stick with butt connectors and a GOOD crimper (NOT the kind that comes in the cheapie little kit with the cheapie connectors) - stay away from soldering.
Express 390
Well-Known Member
- Sep 14, 2018
- 661
- Boat Info
- 1986 SeaRay 390 EC
1993 SeaRay 290 DA single 7.4 /Bravo 2
1992 SeaRay 230 DA 4.3LX Alfa drive
- Engines
- Twin 454 Crusaders inboards 4 blades
As a whole SeaRay does great job on there wiring everything is done neatly and secured with wire ties, unlike a lot of other manufacturers that usually have a ball of spaghetti behind the dash. That always impressed me , the switches are probably ok you might want to get a 12 volt tester , take your time , and sort things out!
