Switch Panel Failure

[Jimmy Carson]

The starboard switch panel(lights, stereo, windlass etc) on my 2006 280 Sundancer will not turn the various functions on immediately. They might come on in 20 minutes to an hour later. Then you can not turn them off. Has anyone experienced a similar problem?

 

[JimG]

The all to common switch pad/EIM problem. The switch pad sends a signal to the EIM which then activates a relay to control the device. About all you can do make sure you have good connections from the pad to EIM (4 wires, 12V, ground, data+, and data-). Make sure the EIM is grounded and a has good 12V main connection. Beyond that, you will have to try to find a pad or EIM to swap out... unfortunately they have been discontinued and are difficult to find.
FP marine makes a replacement system that goes back to toggle/rocker switches, but it's very pricey.

 

[Jimmy Carson]

The all to common switch pad/EIM problem. The switch pad sends a signal to the EIM which then activates a relay to control the device. About all you can do make sure you have good connections from the pad to EIM (4 wires, 12V, ground, data+, and data-). Make sure the EIM is grounded and a has good 12V main connection. Beyond that, you will have to try to find a pad or EIM to swap out... unfortunately they have been discontinued and are difficult to find.
FP marine makes a replacement system that goes back to toggle/rocker switches, but it's very pricey.

 

[Jimmy Carson]

Thank you, Jim. Wish me luck in finding the part. If not, can i borrow several thousand.

 

[Ricky Schultz]

I'm having the same issues with my 240 Sundeck. Marine Max said the original parts are not available but updated ones are. The keypad is only $250, but will not work with the old module. The new module is $920.

 

[Belleview3]

I have the same problem on my '04 280DA. To troubleshoot, MM will sell you the updated set of switchpads to see if the problem goes away. An expensive test, but if it works, you're lucky. I now have a brand new set of switchpads for sale if you're interested. Otherwise, the system has to be replaced either with the FP Marine package ($3700) or the new Sea Ray package ($6700). Or you could build your own system with switches, fuses and relays ( I priced out the components at less than $900 and 30- 40 hours of work). I've exhausted my options in rerouting circuits or hotwiring essential components. I just pulled the trigger and bought the FP package... it should arrive Monday. I'm tired of not having blowers, trim tabs, windlass, lights, etc.
There's several other threads about this subject. Check them out; lots of info. BTW, FP Marine was very informative and they are very helpful with documentation plus installation videos. Good luck.

 

[Jimmy Carson]

I appreciate all the feedback. I will start troubleshooting soon as it cools off.