Overview

The Blue Sea Systems 8263 is a control panel for a single bilge pump, with a water-resistant face and an ON-OFF-AUTO Contura switch, for 12V or 24V DC systems. It fits a compact panel space at 3.75 in high, 2.25 in wide, and 3.00 in deep.

The switch is rated for 20A at 12V DC and 15A at 24V DC, and the fuse holder accepts commonly available AGC and MDL glass fuses up to 20A. An embedded ON LED shows when the pump circuit is running, which helps when you want a quick status check from the helm or dash.

This panel gives you a clean control point for manual and automatic bilge pump operation without piecing together separate switch and fuse components. The watertight mounting gasket and water-resistant front suit installations that see spray, including flybridge and open cockpit layouts.

Key features

• Single bilge pump control panel for 12V or 24V DC systems
• ON-OFF-AUTO Contura switch with an embedded ON LED for pump status indication
• Switch rating of 20A at 12V DC and 15A at 24V DC
• Fuse holder accepts AGC and MDL glass fuses up to 20A
• Water-resistant front with a watertight mounting gasket for exposed mounting locations
• Pre-wired construction helps shorten installation time and keeps wiring work more straightforward

Installation and setup

The panel comes pre-wired, so the job is mainly mounting the unit, tying it into the bilge pump circuit, and fitting the correct AGC or MDL glass fuse for the load. Its compact face makes it easier to place on a helm panel, console face, or other small switch area where space is limited.

Plan for about 3 in of clearance behind the mounting surface. That extra depth check is worth doing before cutting into a dash panel or replacing an older control.

Compatibility and fit

This panel is meant for one bilge pump and works on either 12V or 24V DC boats. It is a practical fit where the owner wants a dedicated switch panel instead of a loose switch and inline fuse holder, and it uses AGC and MDL glass fuses that are easy to source in many marine service setups.

It suits owners replacing an older bilge pump control panel or adding a cleaner helm control on center consoles, walkarounds, pilot houses, and similar boats where the switch area may see spray and regular use.