How to Properly Install Switch Covers

Installing switch covers is surprisingly easy, given you have the proper know-how and tool on hand. No wiring drama required or difficult equipment removal needed, just a bit of careful prying and alignment.

Before we begin, let's get the proper tool. We highly recommend using the Contura actuator removal tool. This tool allows for rapid switch cover installation without the risk of damage to the switch body or cover. If you do not have access to an actuator removal tool, you can use a small flathead screwdriver. It is important to note we do not recommend using a screwdriver, as one slip-up can damage the switch body's holding clip. If that happens, you may have to replace the entire switch, so be careful.

1. The first step in replacing a switch cover is to assess the switching action. You should make sure that the switch body is fully operational before replacing the switch cover. This means inspecting the switch for external damage and testing it to see if it is functional. This simple step can save you a lot of time and prevent you from having to revisit the job.

2. Gently slide the actuator removal tool underneath the side of the switch body that is raised. Depending on how your switch is set up, you may need to try a different side if any piece of equipment is in the way. Once you have the actuator removal tool lined up properly, place your thumb over the top of the current switch cover to hold it in place. Simply push the tool inward until the switch cover pops off. Your thumb will actually prevent the switch cover from flying off, as once the tool releases the switch cover, it tends to pop off with enough force to travel a few feet.

3. Before installing the new cover, take a moment to inspect the exposed face of the switch body. You are looking for not only physical damage but also a form of debris or buildup that may have found its way under the switch cover. After removing any debris or buildup, you are ready to install the new switch cover.

4. Make sure to align the Contura switch cover in the correct vertical position so that the text is easily readable. The next step is to simply press down in the center of the switch cover. It should not require much force to get the switch cover to snap into place. You should hear and feel a simple clicking for each side of the switch cover. You may need to apply pressure to either side where the switch cover pivots. If installing multiple switch covers at once, make sure to replace each cover one at a time. This will prevent accidental misidentification of a switch's function.

5. The last step is the easiest, and it only involves testing the switch with the new cover installed. You are looking for three main things. Does the cover stay firmly attached? Does it move smoothly? Does it feel free of binding or over-tightness? If you answered yes to all three, then you are good to go.

And that's it. Installing switch covers is one of the easiest and fastest jobs you can do to enhance your boat. Now that we are done, we will leave you with a few tips in case you run into any trouble.

Pro tips

If it doesn’t snap on easily, stop and realign rather than forcing it.

Avoid metal tools directly on the plastic face to prevent cosmetic damage.

If you’re working in a tight helm panel, a plastic trim tool gives you more control and less risk of scarring nearby surfaces.

How to quickly and easily replace Contura switch covers.

Now before we get into all the options available and how to pick the right ones, let us look at the proper way to remove, install, and replace existing switch covers. The first thing you will need is the proper tool. Having the right tool makes all the difference and that logic carries over to Contura switch covers. If you use the wrong tools, you run the risk of damaging the switch covers, switch body, or possibly even the panel itself. Pacer offers the perfect tool for replacing Contura switch covers, guaranteeing that you won’t damage the switch cover or the switch body.

1.

The first step in replacing a Contura switch cover with the proper tool is to assess the switching action. That is to say that you should make sure that the switch is fully operational before replacing the switch cover. This means inspecting the switch for external damage and testing the switch to see if there is internal damage. This simple step can save you a lot of time and prevent you from having to revisit the job. Otherwise, you may end up making more work for yourself later on.

2.

Gently slide the actuator removal tool underneath the side of the Contura switch cover that is raised. Depending on how your switch is set up, you may need to try a different side if a breaker is in the way. Once you have the actuator removal tool lined up properly, place your thumb over the top of the current switch cover to hold it in place. Simply push the tool inward until the Contura switch cover pops off. Your thumb will actually prevent the switch cover from flying off as once the tool releases the switch cover it tends to "pop-off" with enough force to travel a few feet.

3.

Make sure to align the Contura switch cover in the correct vertical position so that the text is easily readable. The next step is to simply press down in the center of the switch cover. It should not require too much force to get the Contura switch cover to snap into place. You should hear or feel a simple clicking for each side of the switch cover. You may need to apply pressure to either side where the switch cover pivots. Make sure to replace each Contura switch cover one at a time, otherwise, you may end up losing track of which switch cover goes to which switch.

step-by-step guide
includes tool needed
pro tips.