Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker – 30 Amp Review

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp: First Use to Final Thoughts

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp offers a reliable and convenient solution for protecting your 24-volt marine electrical systems. Rig Rite aims to eliminate the frustration of blown fuses, providing a manual reset option that keeps you on the water longer. It’s a simple device, but crucial for the smooth operation of trolling motors and electric winches.

For years, I’ve battled the inconvenience of blown fuses on my boat, especially when using my trolling motor in heavy weeds. Replacing them mid-lake is a pain, often requiring tools and always interrupting the fishing. I needed a solution that offered reliable protection without the hassle of carrying multiple spare fuses.

The Rig Rite circuit breaker arrived in simple packaging, but the unit itself felt solid and well-built. The manual reset button was prominent and easy to access. The included hardware, especially the 8-gauge ring terminal, seemed appropriate for the intended application.

Compared to standard inline fuse holders, the Rig Rite offers a significant advantage with its reset function. I also considered automatic resetting breakers, but I preferred the manual reset for more control and knowing the exact reason for the trip. This allows for immediate troubleshooting. My initial thought was, “Finally, a simple and robust solution to a recurring problem.”

Real-World Testing: Putting Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp on my bass boat, specifically to protect my 24V trolling motor. My first test was on a local lake known for its dense vegetation, a common cause of trolling motor overloads. The installation process was straightforward, thanks to the included hardware and clear instructions (although minimal).

Throughout the day, the trolling motor worked flawlessly, even when pushing through thick weeds. The breaker tripped only once, when I intentionally overloaded the motor to test its response. Resetting it was a breeze – a simple push of the button and I was back in action.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rig Rite circuit breaker has proven to be a reliable component of my boat’s electrical system. It has endured numerous fishing trips, including some in rough weather and choppy waters. There are no signs of corrosion or wear on the housing or terminals.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick visual inspection for any loose connections is all that’s needed. Compared to constantly replacing fuses, this has been a welcome change. The breaker has consistently performed as expected, providing reliable overload protection and easy resetting. It’s definitely surpassed my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp

Specifications

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp is specifically designed for 24-volt marine applications. Its primary function is to protect electrical circuits from overloads. The key specifications include:

• Voltage Rating: 24V DC – Specifically designed for 24-volt systems commonly found in marine trolling motors and electric winches.
• Current Rating: 30 Amps – This is the maximum current the breaker can handle before tripping, suitable for most mid-range trolling motors.
• Reset Type: Manual – A manual reset button on the housing allows for quick and easy restoration of power after a trip.
• Terminal Type: 8 Gauge Ring Terminal – The included ring terminal simplifies the connection process to the electrical system.
• Housing Material: Not Specified – While the exact material isn’t listed, the housing feels durable and resistant to the elements.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the breaker’s ability to protect your equipment and maintain reliable operation. The 30-amp rating is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your trolling motor or winch’s current draw. The manual reset function offers a significant advantage over traditional fuses, saving time and frustration on the water.

Performance & Functionality

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp excels at its primary job: protecting circuits from overloads. It trips reliably when the current exceeds 30 amps. Resetting the breaker is quick and effortless, restoring power instantly.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The only real weakness is the lack of detailed specifications on the housing material. It has consistently met my expectations, providing peace of mind and preventing blown fuses.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use and durability. The housing is compact and easy to mount in various locations. The manual reset button is prominent and easy to press, even with wet hands.

The Rig Rite is user-friendly, requiring no specialized knowledge or tools for installation or operation. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s a simple, plug-and-play solution.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp appears to be built to last, with a robust housing and sturdy terminals. Given its solid construction and lack of moving parts (other than the reset button), it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional visual inspections for corrosion or loose connections. Its simple design and durable construction make it a low-maintenance component of any marine electrical system.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp comes with the necessary hardware for installation, including keps nuts, mounting hardware, and an 8-gauge ring terminal. There are no specific customization options, as it is a self-contained unit.

Its compatibility with standard marine electrical systems means it can be used with various trolling motors, electric winches, and other 24V accessories. However, ensure that the 30-amp rating is appropriate for the specific device being protected.

Pros and Cons of Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp

Pros

• Reliable Overload Protection: Consistently trips when the current exceeds 30 amps, protecting valuable equipment.
• Manual Reset Function: Eliminates the need to replace fuses, saving time and money.
• Easy Installation: Includes necessary hardware for a straightforward installation process.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
• Simple Operation: User-friendly design requires no specialized knowledge.

Cons

• Lack of Specific Housing Material Information: The exact material used for the housing is not specified.
• Limited Customization Options: It is a self-contained unit with no user-adjustable settings.

Who Should Buy Rig Rite 24V Marine Circuit Breaker With Manual Reset 30 Amp?