New boat. What is this?

[sailprudence]

I purchased a Cal 2-27 and I've been trying to learn all about it. Some logic has worked well for me and then there's other things that I'd likely never figure out without help. What is this socket like thing in the cockpit right above my engine gauges? I have an existing auto tiller receptacle a couple feet further aft. Thanks for any guesses.
For reference, the top photo shows a close up and the bottom photos show's it's position in relation to the gauges and with a cap on.


mysteryguage by picndicular, on Flickr


motorgauges2 by picndicular, on Flickr

[mitiempo]

Looks like a DC plug but not sure what for.

[craigtoo]

DC Plug for spotlight (handheld) while driving?

[sailprudence]

Hmm I was hoping that it would be obvious but I guess not. Well I don't seem to have needed it so far so maybe I should disconnect and remove the wiring.

[sailortjk1]

Why would you disconnect a DC plug?
Lots of uses for it and very convenient to have in the cockpit.
Spot Lite, Hand Held GPS, Charge your phone (if you carry one on board) etc.

[sailprudence]

Why would you disconnect a DC plug?
Lots of uses for it and very convenient to have in the cockpit.
Spot Lite, Hand Held GPS, Charge your phone (if you carry one on board) etc.

It looks like a proprietary receptacle. If it works like a cigarette style receptacle then I'll keep it for sure but it really doesn't look the same to me. It's shallower and has those grooves on the side. I have many cigarette style plugs so I'll have to try it out and see. I'd be happy if it was just that.

[mitiempo]

If it is of no use to you don't remove the wiring. Buy a waterproof cigarette lighter socket and install it. Cost is about 7 or 8 dollars.

[Oldsoul]

My boat (1976) had two of them also. Either abandon it or buy a modern 12 volt plug and change it over. You may want to check the wiring to it to make sure it's in good condition and is large enough to supply the new 12 volt receptacle.

[deniseO30]

what ever you do, use the right screws and 4200 to seal it not 5200. or maybe an o ring that fits behind the flange? Jus sayn

[svHyLyte]

It is a 1970's era "twist-lock" DC power outlet. Search the boat. You are likely to find the mating plug somewhere aboard.

Having a DC outlet in the cockpit can be very handy although I disagree with installing a cigarette lighter style if you cannot find the original twist-lock plug as they are prone to becoming unplugged at most inconvenient times and they invariably leak. A waterproof dual prong plug has much to recommend it as an alternative.

FWIW...