Before I start a fire...changing out trolling motor outlet for 12V Cigarette style

[BOSCBIJI]

Howdy folks...worked through the forums looking for this and think I have it pieced together but welcome advice.

2026 R29. I'd like to convert the port trolling motor outlet (Scotty Downrigger) to a standard 12V cigarette lighter. I'll be powering my StarLink from there (we don't keep it permanently on).

I THINK what I need to do is: Pull the fuse (currently 40A), rewire the outlet for the new 12V cigarette lighter, replace the fuse with a 20A.

The StarLink draw should be WAY under that load, and although the wiring gauge is overkill from the old 40A setup, because I'd be under the wire load, things should be plenty safe right? My experience in this is limited to 'under loading wire is good, overloading wire is bad'...

Does that make sense?

 

[NorthernFocus]

If the plug you're installing is rated for 20A you should be good. As you say going down in amperage isn't a problem as far as the wiring goes. My only comment is that those cigarette type plugs are not very robust and particularly are not designed to be exposed to weather.

 

[SeaWoof]

I personally hate 12v cigarette lighter connections and think that they should be abolished, especially for outdoor environments. It's an outdated connector which was specifically designed for something that is now obsolete (a lighter). They are terrible in marine environments as water intrusion is always an issue, leading to rust etc. and have weak contacts leading to overheating in higher amperage operation. I would personally put in a proper 12v aviation style connector.

These would be good candidates. Just make sure the screws are stainless (or replace with ones that are)

https://www.amazon.com/Connector-Waterproof-Connectors-Industrial-Male-Female/dp/B09MF51CW6

https://www.amazon.com/Waterproof-Connectors-Industrial-Male-Female-Connectors%EF%BC%88Lock/dp/B09T2MH9RS/

 

[SKing]

I use the Scotty downrigger outlet for several things that need a cigarette lighter outlet. On one item i put a matching Scotty plug. On the other items I made a Scotty to Cigarette adapter and I use that when needed.

 

[BOSCBIJI]

I use the Scotty downrigger outlet for several things that need a cigarette lighter outlet. On one item i put a matching Scotty plug. On the other items I made a Scotty to Cigarette adapter and I use that when needed.

Ah. Clever. I’m afraid my version of an adapter would be awful.

 

[SeaWoof]

I use the Scotty downrigger outlet for several things that need a cigarette lighter outlet. On one item i put a matching Scotty plug. On the other items I made a Scotty to Cigarette adapter and I use that when needed.

Yeah the Scotty connections are not bad (they are water resistant). Just proprietary and very expensive for what they are.

 

[SKing]

A quick online search and I find pre-made adapters. Try search terms like, scotty downrigger to cigarette adapter https://peakboys.ca/products/scott-...MfXxqPwOxt7xNq3M_oAoZCcAEl8AwnDCA6vVPFHmKVzfn

 

[Submariner]

Ah. Clever. I’m afraid my version of an adapter would be awful.

This solution could easily be modified to support any adapter. I use it to power my pot puller with a foot operated air switch that turns on a relay for on/off control of my crab/shrimp pot puller. These plastic waterproof boxes are available on Amazon in various shapes and sizes.