Engine Room Discussions

[mikev]

I have a( brand new) push button re-settable 65 amp breaker on a 3208 marine engine. It worked fine for about six months and now it trips quite often. All wiring is new (about 1 1/2 yrs.) Also I would like to find a good wiring diagram for this engine. Any Help?

[colgamj]

If a breaker is suspect, we recommend testing it with an ammeter in series with the load passed through the breaker. For example, a Cat 60 amp rated breaker would carry ~120 amps for 10 seconds. If you measure 120 amps, and it trips right away - replace it. If you measure MORE than 120 amps, then you have the wrong breaker for the application.

Most breakers will carry 200% of the rated current for ~10 seconds. If you are moving current, you need to know the basic calculations.