Topic: Raceway or not?

[jnordyke]

The existing internal raceway from transom to console on my aluminum fishing boat is already pretty full and I still have two transducer cables (SI and high speed) to install to the console.  I could run these cables 'externally' on the underneath side of gunnels so that they are physically protected from chafing...any reason not to do this?  Any reason to further encase the cables in plastic flex conduit?

[newkid4si]

jnordyke
   That full raceway may be a blessing in disguise. I think the general recommendation is NOT to run those cables parallel/near existing cables.
   Someone with more experience will probably post later today.

          Mike
   

[ITGEEK]

If the cables are out of harms way, this may be
a very good way to go.
As long as you won't be stepping on them, or getting
fish hooks in them, I don't see why it would not work well.
I'm not sure if you need the flex conduit, but it would not
hurt.

Mike is right about possible interference.
Cables in close proximity to each other, running in parallel can pick up
interference from each another.

[Humminbird_Greg]

I’ve run transducer and power cables like this before (under the edge of the gunwale) but used some double-sided cable clips to keep the cables neat and out of the way.  Hooks getting stuck in them are a real possibility (and if they hit the wrong wires could damage your unit) so any type of external armoring of the cables is a plus in my book.

[jnordyke]

Thanks, everyone.  I'm convinced now to make external runs...added benefit that when I mess something up (and I will) it will be easier to undo.

[Humminbird_Greg]

Thanks, everyone.  I'm convinced now to make external runs...added benefit that when I mess something up (and I will) it will be easier to undo.

You got that right!

[newkid4si]

jnordyke

   I see that there is a Home Depot in Hannibal. Tell the person in the electrical department what your doing.
   They may offer some ideas. Something you didn't think/know about. The guy in the local HD is pretty clever. Been at this a long time.

              Mike