Neutral / Ground Buss Access

Admiral S

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 14, 2017
Messages
190
Fluid Motion Model
C-28
Hull Identification Number
FMLT2727L617
Non-Fluid Motion Model
Helmsman Trawlers 43 Pilot House
Vessel Name
VARKA
MMSI Number
338238995
Background -

We have a 2017 R-27 with the Novoa Kool R-4500 fridge. Ranger Tug's installs the DC only version of this unit. My issue is that to leave the fridge running at the slip while we are away, we need to leave the House battery switch on which leaves all 3 fuse panels live (Auto pilot controller, shower sump, the list goes on).

I contacted Nova Kool and they shipped me out the dual voltage module to leverage 12v when on the hook and 120v while on Shore power. It cost a few bills, but is a lot cheaper than replacing the whole fridge. I will ship them the DC only module and will even get a few dollars back!

That said, I intend on leveraging one of the spare 120v 10amp breakers already in the panel. I contacted the factory and they advised me that the ground/neutral buss for the 120v system is behind the breaker panels, and could be reached if the fridge is removed (have to remove anyway to swap the module)

Finally to my Question -

Im guessing one needs to be limber to access the buss. Have any fellow tugnut's accessed this before on an R-27 and can give me any tips or tricks before I start the project?
 
I recently removed the fridge to access the N2K network in my 2014 R-27. I did not see any easy access to the area behind the breaker panel. Here is a photo of the inside of the area.
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Note that the lower left access hole has some black/white/green wires. Those would be 120vAC wires. I would inquire further of the factory on access. Your later model could be different.
 
Thanks Larry. Looks like I have an adventure in the near future. The white bundled lines in the bottom right flowing up to the top left are actually the 120v wires. Will need to do some yoga before starting....
 
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