Wiring New Voltmeter

[SeaRayPilot]

I purchased a new digital voltmeter to replace the original as it is no longer accurate.

The original voltmeter has multiple wire connections of varying wire gauges going to the ground, power, and lighting studs.



The new, digital gauge, has either 24 or possibly 28 gauge leads to connect to the gauge with a terminal plug instead of studs. The existing studs are not electrical but only for the mounting clamp.


How would you suggest I connect the new gauge in:
1. Move all the exiting ring leads to adjacent gauges (may not fit as studs are already full), then jumper new leads from new gauge with ring terminals to adjacent gauges?
2. Remove ring leads from existing connections and splice together with new leads?
3. Install terminal blocks (tight space to work in, messy rewiring to allow existing wires to be relocated to terminal blocks?
4. Any other ideas?>

Thanks,
Kevin

 

[scoflaw]

#2

 

[SeaRayPilot]

#2

Yes but now how to create a secure splice. I'm not comfortable twisting six wires (worst case ground) together without getting a weak connection on at least one of the wires.

That leads to maybe using ring terminals and connecting with a short screw/nut connection, then heat shrink, or may using one of the new multiple wire connectors such as the WAGO connectors.

https://www.wago.com/us/wire-splicing-connectors/compact-splicing-connector/p/221-415

What would be acceptable marine splicing standards?

Thanks in advance,
Kevin

 

[Bill Curtis]

Wow, that's a bunch of grounds on that terminal. Never used a "WAGO" connector, so can't speak of them.

You could take all them off and:

1. Put a brass or S/S bolt and nut through them all, adding your new ground to the mix, tape them all up securely. Not my preferred method, BUT will maintain the existing wiring configuration and would be a permanent solution. HINT: Use the 3M Slipknot grey tape.
2. Move all those grounds to another gauge connection they will reach
3. Splice.

Splicing method is splicing / soldering and using shrink tubing with sealant in it (its actually hot glue).

Slide the shrink tube on one un-spliced leg of wires.
Twist wires together.
Solder wires.
Slide shrink tube over splice and apply heat.

Should last nearly forever.