Safe connection for 2 shore power cords

[svHannabel]

Is it safe to connect two shore power cords (same amps) together without a watertight connector/threaded sleeve?

I've got a 50' standard 30 amp Marinco shore power cord and I'd like to attach my 12' EEL cord (also made by Marinco) so that I can use the EEL end to easily and quickly hook up to the boat when we get back to the dock. The problem is, the watertight threaded connectors that Marinco makes for this purpose do not fit on EEL cords. So if I connect the two, it would be simply plugging the male end of one cord into the female of the other without a watertight secure connection.

Here's some photos for clarification:

Threaded sleeve:

EEL cord:

[barnakiel]

It is safe when dry unsafe when wet.

What if the two parts get disconnected while the shore cable is still plugged into the tower?

I have seen owners sailing for a day trip leaving their cables coiled neatly on the dock, HOT (sic!)

b.

[motion30]

I would wrap up the connection with some Rescue Tape

[svHannabel]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

I have seen owners sailing for a day trip leaving their cables coiled neatly on the dock, HOT (sic!)

b.

Yup, I'd actually say that's more common than shutting of the breaker where I'm from.

[rwidman]

Originally Posted by barnakiel

It is safe when dry unsafe when wet.

Short and sweet but that's the correct answer. If you have some way to make sure it doesn't fall into the water and is protected from rain it will be safe.


Keep in mind that the longer the shore power cord is, the more voltage drop you will have under load. The best policy is to use the shortest cord that will reach. Adding additional length is not good.

[Sailmonkey]

Your pictures are of a threaded sleeve for a 30A cord set, and the picture of an eel cord in the 50A flavor!


On edit I just looked at a 30 amp eel cord. I don't see why the threaded connector would not fit.

Sent from my iPhone using Cruisers Sailing Forum

[seasick]

We use several shorter 30 amp cords vs one longer one. We do not tape or try to water proof the connections as this tends to trap what water may get into the connection. We have never had an issue. It is easier to stow the shorter lengths and more often than not one cord is adequate and presents less voltage drop.

We have the same philosophy for our water hoses. Multiple shorter lengths being preferable to one long one.