Using the breaker as a switch

[rexico]

Is the breaker right off the battery, the same as a switch?

[CatFan]

Is the breaker right off the battery, the same as a switch?

It depends on whether it’s designed to be used as a switch. Some are, some aren’t.

[RazorCat]

I just installed a Motorguide 60 amp manual reset circuit breaker and wondered the same thing. It’s designed with a push button to Disengage the circuit breaker when required. My concern is whether constant On/Off cycling will significantly shorten the service life of the circuit breaker? I can always unplug the new Battery Tender I installed, but the circuit breaker is handy when I reach in the bilge to turn off my master switch.
This is what installed. It’s attached directly to my lithium TM battery using the included bus bar.
https://shop.motorguide.com/products/8m0064076.html

[Wayne P.]

Do a search for Switch Duty Marine 60A Circuit Breaker. This is one of them:

Sierra 60A Circuit Breaker | Wholesale Marine

[bobcoy]

There is no info I can see. Whatever you get needs to be: Waterproof, ignition protected and say something like this "Type III - Switchable / Manual Reset - Trip Free". JMO Bob
Wayne's example is a good one! Not a place to scrimp.

[RazorCat]

Do a search for Switch Duty Marine 60A Circuit Breaker. This is one of them:

Sierra 60A Circuit Breaker | Wholesale Marine

Same as mine more or less. Guess I’ll try it as a switch.

[Slicefixer]

Same as mine more or less. Guess I’ll try it as a switch.

You can RC.....i use mine, on the TM batteries, as a switch and without any issues to date.

[bobcoy]

Do you have more information than the link you posted. All it says is that it is a circuit breaker. None of the other important things. The issue is used as a switch it will wear out the circuit breaker function very quickly. Maybe a year or 2.

[catdude28]

I prefer the Blue Seas products


https://www.bluesea.com/products/714...face_Mount_60A

[Bill Reynolds]

If you have a good bulkhead mounting place, this is a good option.

https://thmarinesupplies.com/collect...it-breaker-kit

[06 SB]

I prefer the Blue Seas products


https://www.bluesea.com/products/714...face_Mount_60A

Me too. It is the only ones I use.

[LikeToFish]

Originally Posted by catdude28
I prefer the Blue Seas products


https://www.bluesea.com/products/714...face_Mount_60A

Me too. It is the only ones I use.

Me as well. When I installed my Ultrex I replaced my 50 amp with the one above and use the same one, but a 30 amp, in my battery box. Acts as breaker and switch. Been using it that way for 15 years.

[Fran87]

Also Blue Sea Systems 285-Series Surface Mount Circuit Breaker will work

https://www.bluemarinestore.com/disy...MaAhhFEALw_wcB

[DewRonInc]

All those are just buss breakers except th

[bobcoy]

Another switchable 60 amp breaker: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...0140_619904830

[2011motopart]

It is designed to be a means of disconnect (they are proven to be reliable)
Ive seen them cycled tons!

[yam911]

There is no info I can see. Whatever you get needs to be: Waterproof, ignition protected and say something like this "Type III - Switchable / Manual Reset - Trip Free". JMO Bob
Wayne's example is a good one! Not a place to scrimp.

[CJ1]

The Cooper Bussmann units are what I use, they give me the 48v+ rating for solar installs and last when used as a disconnect under load. They are rebranded under a few manufactures like Buyers. I use Blue seas for all my high current disconnects at 300 to 400 amps so it would make sense that their 200 amp and down units would be good also, but I have no experience with them. CJ

[Ed R]

I use Blue seas manual breakers. I use one on the T-Motor side, and one from the Start battery on a dedicated power cable to an electronics fuse block. At the end of the day I trip both breakers, then charge batteries if needed. Been working as switches for the past 5-6 years.


Circuit Breakers 285-Series 285-Series Circuit Breaker - Surface Mount 50A

7183

• Drop in replacement for 185-Series Circuit Breakers
• Visible reset lever shows open condition
• Ignition protected - Safe for installation aboard gasoline powered boats
• Meets SAE J1171 external ignition protection requirements
• Weather Resistant
• Combines switching and circuit breaker function into one unit*
• "Trip Free" - cannot be held closed after trip

* Do not use as a switch where high inrush currents are expected.


Start side manual breaker.

[rexico]

How do you determine what size breaker goes where? Crank, electronics ect.