Overview

The Blue Sea Systems Traditional Metal DC Panel is a pre-wired DC circuit breaker panel for 12V DC and 24V DC boat electrical systems, with white toggle breakers and backlit circuit labels for easier circuit identification. The range includes 3-position and 8-position versions, both rated for a maximum amperage of 100A.

This panel works well as an extension to an existing DC distribution panel or as a replacement panel when a boat needs cleaner circuit control at the helm, cabin, nav station, or electrical locker. Positive, negative, and grounding buses are already installed, which keeps the installation more orderly and reduces the amount of wiring work needed behind the panel.

Each circuit position has an ON-indicating LED, so circuit status is easy to check at a glance. The white toggle layout gives the panel a clean look while keeping operation simple for everyday loads such as lights, pumps, electronics, and accessory circuits, provided the connected loads are matched to the breakers and the vessel wiring.

Key features

• Pre-wired DC breaker panel with positive, negative, and grounding buses already installed.
• Supports 12V DC and 24V DC electrical systems, with a 100A maximum amperage rating.
• Backlit circuit label positions help identify circuits in low light without adding a separate backlighting kit.
• ON-indicating LEDs are installed in all circuit positions for quick status checks.
• White A-Series toggle circuit breakers give each circuit a familiar switch-style control point.
• Available in 3-position and 8-position versions to match the number of branch circuits needed on board.
• Suited for use as an extension to an existing panel or as a full replacement in a DC distribution layout.

Variants

This Traditional Metal DC Panel is offered in two configurations. The main difference is the number of circuit breaker positions, which affects both panel capacity and installed height.

Both versions share the same 5.25 in width, 12V DC and 24V DC nominal voltage compatibility, 100A maximum amperage rating, backlit label positions, installed buses, white toggle breakers, and ON-indicating LEDs.

• 8025 has 3 positions and measures 3.75 in high by 5.25 in wide. It fits smaller DC distribution layouts or add-on panels where only a few protected circuits are needed.
• 8023 has 8 positions and measures 7.50 in high by 5.25 in wide. It gives more room for branch circuits when replacing a larger panel or expanding a boat electrical system.

Installation and setup

The pre-wired bus arrangement helps keep the back of the panel organized, but the panel should still be installed with properly sized marine wire, terminals, overcurrent protection, and strain relief for the vessel layout. Confirm the available cutout space and behind-panel clearance before ordering, especially when replacing an older panel with different dimensions.

Because the panel is rated for both 12V DC and 24V DC systems, it can be used on a wide range of small boats, cruising sailboats, fishing boats, and auxiliary DC panels. The connected circuits should be planned around the actual load, breaker rating, wire size, and battery system configuration.

Compatibility and fit

The 3-position version is a practical match for compact helm stations, small accessory panels, or limited-space upgrades. The 8-position version is better suited to broader DC distribution needs where several loads need individual switching and circuit protection from one panel location.

For a clean installation, match the selected variant to the number of circuits required now and allow room for likely additions such as electronics, lighting, pumps, chargers, or deck accessories. Labeling each circuit clearly helps future troubleshooting and makes the panel easier to use by anyone on board.