Whether this is your first panel project or you're a seasoned veteran, this guide will cover some things you may have not considered. We're going to look at some of the more important aspects of a panel project in a step by step process. Not only will replacing your own panel you save money, but you'll also have the satisfaction of knowing that you did it with your own hands and effort.
The first thing you need to decide on is the size and function of your panel. For this guide, we'll be building a sixteen switch main dash panel. Don't worry if your panel is a different size. All the steps and topics we will cover will carry over to projects of other sizes. One important aspect of any project is making sure that you have all the parts and tools ready before you start. Whether you need wire connectors, crimp connectors, or any other electrical connector types. Otherwise you'll be putting your project on hold while you wait for parts and tools to arrive. Before you choose your parts, you need to make a choice. Do you save money now and buy cheaper parts or do you go for quality?
Tools
Parts
Knowledge
With over four decades in the marine industry we can tell you with certainty; "If you skimp on parts now, you will definitely pay for it later." Build your panel to last. In order to do that you need quality parts. If you download the checklist below, you'll be able to click on the individual parts to be taken to those products. Could we have made this any easier? Now let's look at that list.
What You'll Need:
Panel Blanks
- 5052 H32 Aluminum
- Powder Coated on both sides
Breakers
- Rugged Thermal Breaker
- Push-to-Reset for Ease of use
Boots
- Protect Breakers
- Durable for repeated use
Switches
- 1,000 of uses
- Multiple varieties Available
Switch Covers
- UV Resistant
- Over 700 options
Wire jumpers
- Simplify Installation
- Save Time & Money
UL Wire
- High quality, marine grade
- Flexible & Durable
Terminals
- Easy to use and Install
- 100's of options available
Crimper
- Correct Crimp every time
- Built for superior quality
Cable Ties
- Long lasting Durability
- Built for ease of use
Connectors
- Environmentally sealed
- Built for longevity & durability
Heat Shrink
- Durable for long term use
- Multiple shrink ratios available
Click HERE for an Easy to Follow Downloadable Version of this List.
*Pro Days promotional code applies to Pacer Pro customer purchases. Not valid for Wholesale or OEM accounts.
Project Schedule
Each week this month we are going dive deeper and deeper into the steps behind the process. This will finally culminate in a step-by-step guide showing you everything you need to do from start to finish.
