Tips For Mounting Switch Panel Boxes

How to mount your switch panel enclosure

Tools needed: 

  • Electric or hand drill
  • Drill bits or hole saw
  • Jigsaw or Coping Saw
  • Measuring Tape
  • Phillips Head Screwdriver
  • Scriber
  • Mounting bolts or screws and washers
  • Square

If you are not confident in using hand or power tools or installing wiring - find someone who is. 

*DISCONNECT POWER SUPPLY AT SOURCE BEFORE COMMENCING ANY ELECTRICAL WORK*

  1. Find a suitable location in regards to ease of use, switch visibility, protection from damage, water ingress etc. If necessary sit in your boat and try different mounting positions for your switch enclosure until absolutely sure of your mounting location. 
  2. Use the cut-out guide or the gasket that came with your switch panel and scribe the cut-out on the inside of the front shroud. Or if mounting custom gauges and switches measure and mark the positions. 
  3. Measure twice - cut once.
  4. Measure twice - cut once! (this is really important).
  5. Cut out hole for panel or switches. 
  6. Only use hand tools to tighten screws.
  7. Mount onto flat surface. 
  8. Use large washers when mounting to spread the load. 
  9. Use cable glands or grommets for wiring entering the switch box. 
  10. Silicone grease can be used to help hold the seal in place. Do not use petroleum jelly. The seal can be a little fiddly to install and appears to be too big. I find that using a ball point pen to gently push the seal into the groove works. You may have to run the pen around the groove a couple of times.   
  11. Designed to be used with the front shroud in a vertical position with the cutback at the bottom. 

* DISCLAIMER*

The end user is the one to decide if this product is suitable for their intended application and where and how to fix, fasten or mount.

The product is water resistant until you drill holes in it and cut pieces out. Please make sure you use gaskets and sealant as needed.

Exercise caution when drilling holes in your boat.

https://youtu.be/dIvxkKT7UsQ