[C320-list] 12 volt receptacle on steering pedistal

[Simon Rock]

I installed the 12volt sockets all through my last boat, so that the
children could plug in their various toys while on the boat. I know that
some would argue that they are trying to get away from it all. But there are
always moments when you want them to leave you alone and listen to their
music.

They are simply to install - just remember to add a fuse or circuit breaker
into the system.

Simon Rock
0428 175510

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of David Swanson
Sent: Thursday, 26 August 2010 2:07 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] 12 volt receptacle on steering pedistal

I just put two 12V outlets in my C320.  

As you know they are very convenient for charging cell phones, ipods and for
using a 12V spotlight.  Like your boat, ours did not have a single 12V
receptacle either.

I used the marine style 12V adapters by Marinco.  They mount easily and work
very well.  I have used them on previous boats as well.  

I installed one in the cabin on the forward side of our electrical panel
along with a CATV and iPod input.  It is out of view and conveniently allows
devices to sit on the shelf when charging.  The 2nd one was installed in our
instrument panel, on the STBD side.  I just tapped existing circuits.  There
is lots of room inside of both locations.  I believe that the hole size for
this specific Marinco outlet is 1.125", so a small hole saw bit for a drill
is necessary. 

The housing on the instument panel is fiberglass and the cabin location is
plywood with teak veneer, so drilling for the 12V outlet was simple.  Just
make sure when you drill the hole that you protect the surfaces on the
fiberglass and teak with blue painters tape to keep the surface from
chipping and protect the adjacent surface.

Make sure you use tinned copper "marine grade" wiring and connectors and
heat shrink tubing to ensure longevity of the connections.

A third location I am considering installing a 12V outlet is in the anchor
locker.  This location would be convenient for use with a 12V spotlight when
picking up a mooring at night.  I haven't done it yet, but I may.

Considering how prolific handheld electronics are, I am surprised that
Catalina has not installed any of these in their late model C320 boats.
Anyway, installing them is a simple and low cost project that provides
significant benefit.  It is getting harder and harder to find these kinds of
projects!

Dave    

David Swanson
S/V Emily Ann
2007 C320 MK II, No. 1107
Mukilteo, WA



On Aug 25, 2010, at 5:11 AM, Brad Kuether wrote:

> Hey everyone,
> 
> Has anyone added a 12 volt receptacle on their later model 320 to the
steering pedestal?  I am tired or losing my GPS after being out all day with
just batteries.  I didn't necessarily want to crack open the instrument case
to get to it either.  
> 
> If anyone has added a receptacle or has tapped the 12 volt inside, I would
love to get any "watchouts", for example:
> 
>  a.. Hard / Easy to take it apart and access it?
>  b.. Better to tap the 12 inside the panel or run new back to the panel?
>  c.. Which side did you mount the receptacle?
>  d.. How much room is inside?
>  e.. Anything else I need to know?
> Thanks in advance, appreciate any / all comments.....
> 
> -Brad, Mary, Monica, and Jarod
> "Independence"
> 2004 Catalina 320 Hull 1006
> Middle River, MD

David Swanson
kswanson123 at comcast.net