Hi Joe,

Yes, that's a reasonable approach to extend your wires using connectors such as barrel, butt, or WAGO.  That would make it easier to pull out the panel but there's still quite a bit going on in a small area and you still have to be able to tuck the wires back in neatly after doing any work in that area.  I decided to take the plunge and make fold down access along with some other upgrades.  It is similar to what Peter and some others have done.  Here's a link to Peter's video that includes a project like this: https://youtu.be/RIzmrtydjbA

I attached a PDF with an overview of my recent changes.  In March, I plan to draw up an electrical diagram for Zephyr and include some background on other recent electrical changes.  I'll share that with the group.

Regardless of the approach you pursue, your future self will thank you if you label the wires before disconnecting anything.

Jesse Shumaker
S/V Zephyr


R22electronicsAccessOnZephyr.pdf

On Mon, Feb 14, 2022 at 4:07 PM <Joedempsey at hughes.net> wrote:

> I'm planning to replace my existing panel. As many have mentioned over the
> years, the original wiring is extremely short making it nearly impossible
> to
> manipulate. I'm considering splicing extensions onto the existing wires to
> provide working lengths. I will use barrel connectors with heat shrink
> insulation. Is there any reason I should not do this?  I'd appreciate any
> advice on this. Thanks in advance.
>
>
>
> Joe Dempsey
>
> SV Respite
>
> Deltaville, VA
>
>