Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of the Lewmar 68000348 50 Amp Thermal Circuit Breaker. This device is specifically designed for use in marine electrical systems, particularly with Lewmar electric winches and windlasses, to protect circuits from overcurrent conditions.
Safety Information
WARNING: Electrical shock hazard. Always disconnect power before installation or servicing.
- Ensure all power sources are disconnected before beginning installation or maintenance.
- Installation should be performed by a qualified marine electrician or technician.
- Verify the circuit breaker's current rating (50 Amps) matches the requirements of the protected circuit.
- Do not operate the circuit breaker if it appears damaged.
- This device is designed for DC applications up to 48 Volts.
Product Overview
The Lewmar 68000348 is a 50 Amp thermal circuit breaker designed for panel mounting. It features an automatic trip mechanism in response to overcurrent and a manual reset button. Its robust, waterproof design ensures reliable performance in marine environments.
Key Components
- Circuit Breaker Body: The main housing containing the electrical components.
- Reset Button: A red button used to manually reset the breaker after it has tripped.
- Mounting Holes: Holes for securing the breaker to a panel.
- Electrical Terminals: Connections for input and output wiring.
Product Image
Figure 1: Front view of the Lewmar 68000348 50 Amp Thermal Circuit Breaker, showing the 50 Amp rating, thermal circuit breaker designation, 48 Volts DC maximum, ignition protected, waterproof labels, and the red reset button with a yellow reset lever.
Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the safe and effective operation of the circuit breaker. Follow these steps carefully:
- Select Mounting Location: Choose a dry, accessible location on a panel, away from excessive heat or vibration. Ensure sufficient space for wiring and access to the reset button.
- Prepare Mounting Surface: Drill appropriate holes for mounting screws and the breaker body, if recess mounting. Refer to the product dimensions for precise measurements (6 x 6 x 6 inches).
- Mount the Breaker: Secure the circuit breaker to the panel using appropriate fasteners through the mounting holes.
- Wire Connections: Connect the positive (+) input wire from the power source to one terminal and the positive (+) output wire to the protected device (e.g., winch, windlass) to the other terminal. Ensure all connections are tight and secure. This is a 2-pole breaker.
- Verify Wiring: Double-check all wiring connections for correctness and polarity before restoring power.
- Restore Power: Once installation is complete and verified, restore power to the circuit.
Operating Instructions
The Lewmar 68000348 circuit breaker operates automatically to protect your electrical system:
- Normal Operation: Under normal conditions, current flows through the breaker without interruption.
- Overcurrent Trip: If the current exceeds 50 Amps due to an overload or short circuit, the thermal mechanism within the breaker will heat up and automatically trip, interrupting the circuit. The red reset button will typically pop out.
- Resetting the Breaker: To reset the breaker after a trip, first identify and rectify the cause of the overcurrent (e.g., remove the overload, fix the short circuit). Once the issue is resolved, firmly press the red reset button until it clicks back into place. If the breaker immediately trips again, the fault has not been cleared.
Maintenance
The Lewmar 68000348 circuit breaker requires minimal maintenance:
- Periodic Inspection: Regularly inspect the breaker and its connections for any signs of corrosion, loose wiring, or physical damage.
- Cleaning: Keep the breaker clean and free of dirt, dust, and moisture. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
- Terminal Check: Periodically check the tightness of the electrical terminal connections.
Troubleshooting
Refer to the table below for common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Breaker trips immediately after reset. | Persistent overload or short circuit in the protected circuit. | Identify and resolve the underlying electrical fault. Do not repeatedly reset the breaker without addressing the cause. |
| Breaker does not trip under overload. | Breaker is faulty or undersized for the application. | Replace the breaker. Ensure the correct amperage rating is used for the circuit. |
| No power to device, breaker not tripped. | Loose connections, faulty wiring, or power source issue. | Check all wiring connections for tightness. Verify power supply to the breaker. Inspect wiring for damage. |
| Physical damage to breaker. | Impact or improper handling. | Replace the damaged breaker immediately. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 68000348 |
| Manufacturer | Lewmar |
| Current Rating | 50 Amps |
| Circuit Breaker Type | Thermal, Standard |
| Mounting Type | Panel Mount |
| Number of Poles | 2 |
| Maximum Voltage | 48 Volts DC |
| Protection Features | Ignition Protected, Waterproof |
| Item Weight | 2.4 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 6 x 6 inches |
| UPC | 743683305719 |
Warranty Information
For detailed warranty information regarding the Lewmar 68000348 50 Amp Thermal Circuit Breaker, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Lewmar directly. Warranty terms and conditions may vary.
Customer Support
If you require further assistance, technical support, or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact Lewmar customer service or visit their official website for support resources.
