Perko 8503DP Medium Duty Battery Selector Switch with Alternator Field Disconnect

The Perko 8503DP is a medium duty battery selector switch built for boats running non unitized alternators, where an alternator field disconnect is needed to protect the charging system. The switch's alternator field disconnect feature interrupts the field current if the switch is turned OFF while the engine is still running, reducing the risk of damage to the alternator. The body is molded polycarbonate with brass terminals for corrosion resistance and long service life at the helm or in the engine compartment.

Operation is a rotary, two position (2-way) design rated for 6 to 50 volt marine electrical systems and up to 250 amps. The knob uses a 90 degree rotation feature so the operator can feel the switch's position by touch alone, which matters in low light or in an emergency shutoff situation, and the classic knob shape makes it easy to grip and turn even with wet or gloved hands. The switch is ignition protected and carries an IP54 ingress protection rating. An optional spacer ring, sold separately under part number 0462DP0RED, allows the use of larger cables with this switch. The 8503DP is a surface mount switch intended for permanent panel or bulkhead installation.

Specifications

• Brand: Perko
• Manufacturer Part Number: 8503DP
• Switch Type: Battery Selector Switch with Alternator Field Disconnect
• Operating Voltage: 6 to 50 Volts (Marine Electrical Systems)
• Current Rating: 250 Amps
• Number of Positions: 2
• Circuit Type: 2-way
• Actuator Type: Manual, 90 degree rotation knob
• Terminal Type: Screw Terminal (Marine)
• Contact Material: Brass
• Body Material: Polycarbonate
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount
• Ingress Protection Rating: IP54
• Color: Gray
• Ignition Protected: Yes
• Dimensions: 2.63 x 5.25 x 5.25 inches
• Weight: 0.9 pounds
• Optional Accessory: Spacer ring, part number 0462DP0RED, for use with larger cables
• UPC: 066510878508, 085226559884, 012304402350

Fitment

Fits 6 to 50 volt marine electrical systems using non unitized alternators that require a field disconnect when the battery switch is turned OFF with the engine running.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the alternator field disconnect on the Perko 8503DP do? It interrupts the alternator's field current if the 8503DP switch is turned OFF while the engine is still running, which reduces the possibility of damage to a non unitized alternator.

Is the Perko 8503DP ignition protected? Yes, the 8503DP is ignition protected, meaning it is designed to reduce the risk of igniting flammable vapors in the engine compartment.

What voltage range does this battery switch support? The 8503DP is rated for use on 6 to 50 volt marine electrical systems.

How many amps is the Perko 8503DP rated for? It carries a 250 amp current rating.

What materials is the 8503DP made from? The switch has a polycarbonate body with brass terminals and brass contacts for corrosion resistance.

What are the dimensions of the Perko 8503DP battery switch? The 8503DP measures 2.63 x 5.25 x 5.25 inches.

How much does the Perko 8503DP weigh? The 8503DP weighs 0.9 pounds.

How is the Perko 8503DP mounted? It is a surface mount switch designed for panel or bulkhead installation.

What is the difference between the Perko 8503DP and a standard selector switch like the 8501? The 8503DP (Fig. 8503) adds an alternator field disconnect function that the standard Fig. 8501 selector switch does not have; the 8503DP is intended for use with non unitized alternators that require this protection.

Can the 8503DP accept larger battery cables? Yes, an optional spacer ring, part number 0462DP0RED, is available separately and allows the 8503DP to accommodate larger cables.

What is the ingress protection rating of the Perko 8503DP? The 8503DP carries an IP54 ingress protection rating.

How many switch positions does the 8503DP have? The 8503DP is a 2-way, two position rotary switch that lets the operator feel the switch position through a 90 degree rotation knob, useful in low light.