Where is the best place to ground accessories on a boat?

Depends, but the easiest place is the battery if you are thinking stereo equipment. <BR> <BR>Ryan

I'm just adding a 12V outlet for cell phone charger and and for the fat sack pump. I'd really not want to have to run all the way to the bat. Can you tap into where the amp ground wire hooks to the amp? I'm hesitant to tap into anything like that???

you would take a big risk on running engine, and other noises back into the amp

how about a terminal block under your dash, if there is one use it, there has to be some sort of power tap at the dash for the lights and switches

If was just the cell phone charger, I would say tap in anywhere you can get the connection. <BR> <BR>The fat sack pump is going to draw a fair amount of current so you have to be a little more careful. If you don't mind the stereo having difficulty pounding out the bass while you are filling the fat sack, then it probably won't be a problem to tap in there. <BR> <BR>A word of caution, however. Eventually someone may want to plug in a 1,000,000 candle power spot light, which draws LOTS of current. I suggest wiring the outlet for the worst possible situation, and run heavy guage wire to a point that can handle to load, either the engine or the battery direct. <BR> <BR> You mentioned only the negative side, where are you grabbing positive from? Again, I suggest going back to either the starter or directly to the battery, with a fuse or circuit breaker installed. The last thing you want to do is fry your electrical system to the dash late some night...... <BR>

Thanks Rod....that is great advise! I hadn't thought about that 1,000,000 candle watt spot light under my bow seat! I guess i'll just go all out and run to the battery. I wanted the lazy man way out...but I guess I'll have to buck up. I definitely wouldn't want to fry everything at night..the worst possible time. Especially out on the delta! <BR> <BR>I was planning on running the positive wire to the one of the 2 unused Accessory switches on the dash. That way it would be totally off unless you turned it on there. It is a bit confusing on those though...there are several wires coming out from the back of each switch. Hence my other post for mechanic books for a '90 sport nautique! <BR> <BR>Also, what gauge of wire would be appropriate? <BR> <BR>Thanks everyone! <BR>

in west marines catalog near the wire is a guide for the gauge depending on the length of run and amps your expecting to use, i looked on their web site but couldnt find it

Levi - I think using the switch for the 12v outlet is probably a little over kill. It won't draw any power unless something is plugged into it. Besides, you'll probably add something else in the future and want another switch. I've found you never seem to have enough switches!

Look for somthing like this under or near your dash. <BR> <BR><img src="http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/65921/71672.jpg" alt="">