Let’s Dive into Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless products promising safety and reliability, but few address the specific needs of marine electrical systems as directly as the Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp. Rig Rite, a trusted name in boating accessories, aims to offer a robust, reusable alternative to traditional fuses with this circuit breaker, ensuring your trolling motors and electric winches stay powered without the frustration of constantly replacing blown fuses. Its automatic reset feature and compatibility with both 12V and 24V systems make it an intriguing solution for boat owners looking for peace of mind on the water.
My aging pontoon boat’s unreliable electrical system has been a constant source of headaches, especially when relying on my trolling motor in remote fishing spots. The promise of a circuit breaker that automatically resets after an overload, eliminating the need to carry and fumble with replacement fuses, was incredibly appealing.
Upon receiving the Rig Rite 350, I was immediately impressed by its solid build quality and the inclusion of all necessary hardware for installation. The nuts, washers, mounting hardware, and even an 8-gauge ring terminal, showed that Rig Rite considered the end-user experience.
Compared to standard fuse blocks or cheaper circuit breakers I’ve used in the past, the Rig Rite 350’s automatic reset and voltage versatility stood out. It felt like a more professional and reliable solution than simply slapping in another fuse and hoping for the best.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to test its claims of durability and automatic reset capability under real-world conditions and eliminate the dreaded “blown fuse ruining a fishing trip” scenario.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Rig Rite 350 directly in line with my 24V trolling motor on my pontoon boat, replacing an existing fuse holder that had given me trouble. The first real test came during a week-long fishing trip on a large, remote lake.
The weather was unpredictable, ranging from calm, sunny days to sudden squalls with heavy rain and choppy waters. I deliberately pushed my trolling motor to its limits, navigating through thick weeds and against strong currents.
Installation was straightforward and thanks to the included hardware, I didn’t have to make a run to the store. I never had to worry about fiddling with fuses, even when the trolling motor momentarily overloaded due to snagging on submerged debris.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Rig Rite 350 has proven to be a dependable addition to my boat’s electrical system. It’s been subjected to everything from intense summer heat to chilly autumn mornings, all without a single hiccup.
The durable housing shows no signs of cracking or degradation, and the connections remain secure. I’ve periodically inspected it for corrosion, but found none, a testament to its marine-grade construction.
In contrast to my previous experiences with fuses that would blow at the slightest provocation, the Rig Rite 350 handles overloads gracefully, automatically resetting once the load returns to normal. It’s a significant improvement in terms of both convenience and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp
Specifications
The Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp is specifically designed for marine environments, providing circuit protection for trolling motors, electric winches, and other high-amperage accessories. It operates on both 12-volt and 24-volt electrical systems, offering versatile compatibility.
The 50 Amp rating is crucial, ensuring the breaker can handle the current draw of typical trolling motors and winches without tripping unnecessarily. The automatic reset feature is a major selling point, eliminating the need to manually replace blown fuses and preventing frustrating downtime.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Rig Rite 350 is to protect your electrical system from overloads and short circuits, and it performs this task admirably. It reliably trips when the current exceeds 50 amps, preventing damage to your equipment.
The automatic reset feature is a game-changer. Instead of being stranded with a dead trolling motor, the breaker simply resets itself once the overload condition is resolved, allowing you to resume operation quickly.
While it might be nice to have an option for manual reset as well, the automatic reset is extremely useful.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rig Rite 350 features a compact, robust design that is well-suited for the harsh marine environment. The housing is made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring long-lasting performance.
The included mounting hardware and 8-gauge ring terminal simplify installation, even for those with limited electrical experience. The breaker is easy to access and inspect, making maintenance a breeze.
Durability & Maintenance
Designed for marine environments, the Rig Rite 350 is built to withstand the elements. Its corrosion-resistant construction and robust housing ensure years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular inspection for corrosion or loose connections is all that’s needed to keep it functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rig Rite 350 comes with all necessary mounting hardware and an 8-gauge ring terminal, eliminating the need to purchase these separately. This is a great bonus.
While there are no specific customization options for the breaker itself, its standard design allows it to be easily integrated into existing marine electrical systems.
Pros and Cons of Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp
Pros
- Automatic Reset: Eliminates the hassle of replacing blown fuses, keeping you on the water longer. This is the most important feature.
- 12/24 Volt Compatibility: Works with a wide range of marine electrical systems, providing versatility.
- 50 Amp Rating: Suitable for trolling motors, electric winches, and other high-amperage accessories.
- Easy Installation: Includes all necessary mounting hardware and an 8-gauge ring terminal.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Cons
- No manual reset option: In some situations, a manual reset might be preferable to diagnose problems.
- Limited amperage adjustability: While 50 amps is suitable for many applications, some users might require a different rating.
Who Should Buy Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp?
Perfect for: Boat owners who rely on trolling motors or electric winches, anglers who fish in remote locations, and anyone looking for a more reliable and convenient alternative to traditional fuses. Those with older boats that can experience electrical surges, will benefit the most.
Who should skip this product? Those with very low-amperage electrical systems or those who prefer the manual control of a traditional fuse setup.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While the Rig Rite 350 is ready to install out of the box, consider using marine-grade wiring and connectors for optimal performance and longevity.
Conclusion on Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp
The Rig Rite 350 12/24 Volt Marine Circuit Breaker With Automatic Reset 50 Amp is a worthwhile investment for any boat owner looking to improve the reliability and convenience of their electrical system. Its automatic reset feature, durable construction, and easy installation make it a standout product in its category.
At $13.99, the price is more than justified by the peace of mind and convenience it provides. Eliminating the frustration of blown fuses alone makes it worth the cost.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rig Rite 350 to any boater seeking a reliable and hassle-free circuit protection solution. Upgrade your boat today and say goodbye to those frustrating blown fuses!