see http://forums.sbo.sailboatowners.com/archive/index.php/t-59072.html
----- Original Message -----
From: PeterE
To: [email protected]
Sent: Thursday, July 22, 2010 2:52 PM
Subject: [IC27A] Why did a new GFCI cause reverse polarity?
Thanks to all of you who post more often than I. Your willingness to share
your knowledge is appreciated!
Yesterday I added a GFCI to my (1986) boat's electrical system. The
mechanical work went "OK"; Wiring was a cinch. But when I applied power the
'Polarity Reversed' indicator lights up. What would cause this? More
importantly, how can I fix it?
Regarding electrical details, the GFCI replaced the duplex outlet mounted on
the side of the power panel. It was inserted into the circuit between the main
breaker and the power terminal strip (which feeds power to the remaining 4
duplex outlets). So, power path is Breaker -> GFCI Line side -> GFCI Load side
-> term strip/4 outlets.
Maybe someone will benefit from knowing about how I did this project:
I needed a couple of spade terminals (12# wire; yellow color) but,
surprisingly, did not need any additional wire. That's significant, since it's
a bit special, as it's stranded wire. I removed the line connections from the
terminal strip and attached them directly to the line side of the new GFCI. For
connection to the load side of the GFCI, I simply re-used the two short lengths
of wire which had been used to supply power from the terminal strip to the
original duplex outlet.
Regarding mechanicals, it was a bit of a challenge to enlarge the cut-out to
accommodate the larger size of the GFCI duplex outlet. Due to space limitations
it's difficult to use a saw. I used a Dremel-type tool. I didn't know which
tips/blades would be best to cut through the wood (1/2") and fiberglass (1/4").
I tried 3 or 4, and still don't know! (Neither worked very good). Ironically,
when I finally used a sanding tip, to smooth-out edges, I found that it cut
(sanded-away) better than the other tools! Go figure!
Thanks for your help.
Pete
'Still Fiesty' -- '6171 TR
