Complete your project with the wiring components, terminals and tools you need to do the job right.
Wiring components include a range of products that boaters need when repairing or creating an electrical system on their boats. This includes plugs and outlets, wire terminals, terminal kits, wiring tools and lightening protection.
Plugs and Outlets
A variety of plugs and outlets for 12-volt electrical systems are offered. These include 12 volt outlets, USB charging ports and 12 volt plugs and receptacles. For boats with a 120-volt system, the selection also includes a GFCI duplex outlet and a dual outlet receptacle.
Wire Terminals
Making secure electrical connections is facilitated by choosing the right wire terminals. At West Marine, you have plenty to choose from. Insulated AWG gauge wire terminals include butt connectors, bullet terminals, spade terminals, ring terminals, insulated disconnects, splice connectors and 3-way connectors. Wire terminals are offered with a choice of nylon or heat shrink insulation.
Heavy-duty terminals for battery cables are also offered. These include heavy-duty tinned lugs, 90 degree tinned copper lugs, tinned brass battery terminals, lead battery terminals and heavy-duty, tinned butt connectors.
Wire Terminal Kits
Purchasing a terminal kit helps to ensure that you always have the right type and gauge of terminal to get the job done. Choose between kits that contain terminals with heat shrink or plain insulation.
Wiring Tools and Accessories
To do a job right you need the right tool. To strip insulation and crimp on wire terminals West Marine offers several different wire stripper/crimpers. For heavier work, like crimping on battery cable terminals, the selection also includes heavy-duty hex lug and terminal crimpers. By the way, for those partial to soldered wire connections, our selection includes a butane-powered soldering kit. Other tools accessories offered include small, butane fired heat guns and torches and electrical tape.
Lightning Protection
One way to lessen the chance of a lightning strike is to dissipate the build-up of “streamers” which complete the path for a strike. Forespar’s Lightning Master™ Static Dissipater is designed to accomplish this task.
Wiring Components FAQ
A heat shrink ring terminal is a type of electrical connector used to attach wires to a stud or screw. It includes a heat shrink sleeve that, when heated, seals the connection to protect against moisture, corrosion, and vibration.
Marine-grade heat shrink terminals provide better protection in harsh marine environments. They resist corrosion, keep moisture out, and maintain secure electrical connections despite movement and salt exposure.
To install, strip the wire, insert it into the terminal, crimp it securely, and then apply heat using a heat gun. The shrink tubing seals the connection for added protection.
No, automotive terminals are not designed for marine conditions. Marine terminals use tinned copper and sealed insulation to withstand saltwater, heat, and constant motion.
Select a ring terminal that matches both your wire gauge and the stud size it will attach to. Always check specifications for compatibility to ensure a safe and secure connection.
Inspect terminals regularly for corrosion or looseness. Reapply dielectric grease when needed, and replace damaged terminals to keep your boat’s wiring safe and reliable.