After many years of owning small power boats, I wanted something different. So, bought a MacGregor 25 with trailer and an electric start merc outboard. The manual states never to run this engine without being hooked up to a battery, else the charging circuit will be damaged. The former owner ran wires out of a vent cover on the stern that have crimp connectors on them. The motor has corresponding connectors. There are bolts to connect the hot to hot and ground to ground. There is no way to insulate either wire other than to wrap them with electrical tape. Not a great way to hook up the electric! I would like to transport the boat without the motor attached, then hook it up when I'm at the ramp. My question is, is there some type of insulated plug and receptacle that is appropriate for this use? The wires look to be at least 12 gauge, possibly 10. Merc recommends a battery of 465 amps and 350 cold cranking amps for this engine, so the connector will need to be stout. Any recommends will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for any and all suggestions, Tom
Newbie with outboard kicker questions
- Thread starter Tom7219
- Start date
Thanks for the suggestion. Do you think they would handle the amperage at 12 volts?
I use these Powerwinch plugs to quick-connect my elect trolling motor. I'm using #12 wire. You're right, it's hard to find decent plugs for these high amperage at a reasonable cost, but these are working well for me.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FCIEDI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005FCIEDI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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The MC4 connector is UL rated at 20 A and 600 V maximum, depending on the conductor size used.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/MC4_connector
What does the starter require?
I have this type of "terminal feed through" connection between cabin and aft lazarette. Wing nuts hold the lugs on the posts... I have covers for the motor's cable lugs that snug up on the terminal posts.
You may want to use a different style.. there are many choices... check the link. Here's a surface mount style that may work better for you.
Also, I'd suggest a battery selector switch near the battery box... this one is the classic Off-1-2-both rotary type. It allows you to manage two circuits(or two batteries) as in "motor" and "house"
You may want to use a different style.. there are many choices... check the link. Here's a surface mount style that may work better for you. Also, I'd suggest a battery selector switch near the battery box... this one is the classic Off-1-2-both rotary type. It allows you to manage two circuits(or two batteries) as in "motor" and "house"