u/Big_Log1714

▲ 12 r/liveaboard+1 crossposts

Helping a friend plan a simple 12V electrical system for a small boat. What should we watch out for?

Hey everyone,

A friend asked me to help him think through a basic 12V electrical setup for a small boat, and before making any real decisions I’d like to understand the common mistakes and safety points.

The idea is something simple: battery, a few loads, switches, fuses, maybe navigation lights and a bilge pump.

For people who have worked on small boat electrical systems, what are the most important things to get right from the beginning?

I’m especially wondering about:

- fuse placement
- wire sizing
- battery isolation
- bilge pump circuits
- corrosion
- marine-grade components
- cable routing
- beginner mistakes that can become dangerous

I’m not looking to improvise or replace professional advice. I just want to understand the basics better before helping him plan anything.

reddit.com
u/Big_Log1714 — 7 days ago

Hey everyone,

A friend asked me to help him think through a basic 12V electrical setup for a small boat, and before making any real decisions I’d like to understand the common mistakes and safety points.

The idea is something simple: battery, a few loads, switches, fuses, maybe navigation lights and a bilge pump.

For people who have worked on small boat electrical systems, what are the most important things to get right from the beginning?

I’m especially wondering about:

- fuse placement
- wire sizing
- battery isolation
- bilge pump circuits
- corrosion
- marine-grade components
- cable routing
- beginner mistakes that can become dangerous

I’m not looking to improvise or replace professional advice. I just want to understand the basics better before helping him plan anything.

reddit.com
u/Big_Log1714 — 7 days ago

Hey everyone!

I’m planning a van road trip around Andalusia and I’d love some advice from people who have already done it.

I’m thinking about places like Málaga, Cádiz, Tarifa, Granada, Ronda, Sevilla, Córdoba and maybe Cabo de Gata, but I’m open to changing the route.

I’m looking for scenic roads, quiet beaches, small villages, good overnight spots, local food recommendations and any tips about parking or sleeping in the van in southern Spain.

I’d like to travel slowly, enjoy the views and avoid only doing the usual tourist route.

What were your favorite vanlife stops in Andalusia?

reddit.com
u/Big_Log1714 — 7 days ago