What size fuse?

[jeffrey.bean]

I'm installing two 12 v outlets ( cigarette), what size fuse should I install. The main device that I'll be using in them, is one of those million candle power spot lights. I checked the light, but no info is available.

I installed a new fuse panel ( blue sea) it takes the blade style fuses. The old fuse ( glass) for my nav lights was 3 amp, I can't find one in blade style, is it ok to jump up to a 5 or 7.5? Both my lights are incandescent, the bow is a perko fig 71, I couldn't find any info on the stern light, but its very common.

Thanks....

 

[earl60446]

Those spotlights pull a lot of current. I saw a guy melt his dash on his truck using one of those things. Probably best way to connect it is via big clips right to a battery. Most electrical devices have stamping on them indicating wattage or current draw. If you go to a cigarette lighter socket, make sure you keep an eye on the socket and wiring and do not increase the fuse size.

Is it ok to replace a 3amp fuse with a 5amp fuse, probably ok in your case using it strictly for the anchor and running lights, not a good precedent to set though.

 

[Bob Landry]

The cig lighter plugs handle 10A, so you need to do some research on the spotlight. It's OK to go up to 5A on the nav light circuit, just be sure the wire you use will handle 5A in the event of a short.

Good point about the light wattage. Divide by 12 to gate the current draw.

 

[jeffrey.bean]

Thanks guys, looks like west marine has 3 amp blade fuses.
I'll have to look into the spot light.