Will five into four go (numpty raymarine st60 wind question)?

[alisdair4]

As part of my refit, I am installing a deck socket and plug to replace a through deck gland which took the ST60 Wind cable through the deck. This should avoid the need to remove a headlining panel every time the mast is taken down.

Having bought a 4-pin socket and plug from Inverkip, I got back to Kiel to find that the ST60 has 5, not 4, little wires contained within the cable. One of these is marked "Screen" in the instruction booklet. (the remainder are yellow, blue, green and red). I am unsure what "screen" does - but assuming it is similar to earth, could this be attached to the inside of the metal part the deck plug (and socket) to make a connection? The other 4 wires would go into the socket in the normal manner.

Any thoughts, advice, gratefully received.

 

[neilf39]

Would have thought it would work. It is labelled screen/gnd in a diagram I have seen. So long as the socket and plug metal parts mate and make good conductive connection and nothing else can touch them to short against it. Probaly the best one to pick. When the plug and socket are together is the metal outer exposed or is it covered by plastic. If exposed then I would make sure it's taped over to keep it isolated.

 

[awol]

The black is the return for both the anemometer and the 2 direction circuits. Your bodge will work but not as elegant as a 5-pin plug.

 

[alisdair4]

Accept that it will not be "elegant", however, I hope that it will not be obvious! I envisage the ground/screen wire fitting between the inner plastic holder (into which the other wires will go) and the stainless steel outer. I always tape over my deckplugs, so neilf's point (above) will be addressed too. Thanks, both.