The hot side pin in the female section of my trolling motor plug (Atwood) corroded off completely. The plug gets washed off each trip and is garage kept, so I don’t think salt is the issue. I have a spare plug to replace the bad one, but what can I use to keep this from happening again?
Corrosion is from the salt that enters while on the water…even if it is a very small amount. The electrical current greatly speeds up the galvanic corrosion process.
I suggest upgrading to a better quality plug and socket. The Attwood connector is not a good choice for anything but weekend use at the lake. I have a Marinco locking plug that has an o-ring seal when seated. I also spray the connecters with T-9 Boeshield or equivilent.
Iain Pelto
Sea Hunt Triton 160 w/ 90 ETEC “JB3”
Native Manta Ray 14
Corrosion and heat are the worst thing for a trolling motor plug.
Get you an Anderson plug and never have to worry about it again.
I bought the same POS plug and the spring/pin that holds the cover on was rusted before it ever hit the water. I can’t believe they would make something for a marine application like that and use standard steel. I guess you get what you pay for.
conductive grease is what I use. waterproof but lets electricity through
Still have to re-apply every now and then, but should help keep things a little better protected.
Marinco plugs work fine for me. I replace them every few years.
Gotcha Covered,
Lee Strickland
Strickland Marine Insurance Agency, Inc.
https://stricklandmarine.net
843-795-1000 / 800-446-1862
Just wanted to add a new problem with the atwood plug. Got out on the water about 6:15 and it was filled to the top with ice. It has a cover that does not appear to stop water. Spent valuable prime fishing time heating a screwdriver with a lighter to melt and chip ice out so I could use my plug.
Just do away with the plug and strate wire it with stacons and silicone and remove conections from battery after use It will eleminate a lot of headachs!
straight wire is what i did. wish i had done it sooner. jan
works every time. I first did it as a quick on the water fix! Next time I just left it! Its best to cut out the middle man!