What sort of waterproof plug?

[cmedsailor]

I was thinking of making permanent wire connections for my solar panel that will end somewhere near the top of the bimini frame and from there simply connect it when necessary (and just place the panel on top of the bimini). Question is, what sort of waterproof plug to use so I could connect and disconnect it easily (certainly not a cigarette type)?
The other alternative (but I don't really like it) is to use a plug somewhere on the deck instead. But again I need an even better waterproof plug. Any ideas? Or hopefully any photos of plugs I could use?
Thanks

 

[sarabande]

just cjanged a solar panel pug too !

Bulgin make loads of water proof connectors
http://www.bulgin.co.uk/Products/Buccaneer/Buccaneer.html

and we used the two pin type.

 

[colvic987]

I'll second the bulgin buccaneer waterproof plugs, as mentioned by sarabande

 

[mcframe]

I'll second the bulgin buccaneer waterproof plugs, as mentioned by sarabande

Thirded - I think I got mine from http://www.indexmarine.co.uk/ - I use one for the solar on the boat, but have used 'em for years on motorbikes for trickle charging & powering a GPS.

My solar is lashed to the sprayhood in such a manner that I can undo the forward two loops, fold the hood down and push the panel forward over the cabin-top so it still works. The cable runs in loops across the forward hoop and round and under to a socket on the bulkhead.

 

[V1701]

I've got these. They have survived fairly heavy rain but there's no means of capping the ones that are left outside when you disconnect the panel. Why don't they publish the prices on some of these sites, very annoying...

 

[ghostlymoron]

Bulgin are the only deck plugs I have come across that you can rely on. I think they do an in-line type. Maplins are possibly worth a look but you need IP67 rating for durability and waterproofness.

 

[RobF]

I've had good success with Dri-plug. Over 10 years old and completely watertight. URL is http://www.driplug.com/products.htm I suggest the BD500 would be more than adequate.

 

[ean_p]

The Bulgin Buccaneer plugs are good. I made a nice Umbilical torch for diving with once using a two pin inline Buccaneer plug and socket assembly. As a test to destruction sent it down to just short of sixty meters and bounced the all lot on the bottom........all came back up in great shape and when i opened the plug and socket it was bone dry inside....... their the dogs little bits

 

[AngusMcDoon]

But again I need an even better waterproof plug. Any ideas? Or hopefully any photos of plugs I could use?

As an alternative...the original equipment on my boat are Binder Connectors. No failures in 10 years. They can be bought from Compass 24. They sell more types than are on their website, so you need to speak to a hooman.

On all of these an annual dose of vaseline on the seals keeps them watertight. I know that someone will now say that vaseline degrades the seals. Maybe. But not half as quickly as salt water degrades the electrics.