Let’s Talk About Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector
The Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector promises to simplify connecting your outboard motor and other marine accessories to your boat’s battery. Offered by Connect-Ease, this kit boasts a user-friendly design and saltwater-approved components, aiming to streamline the often-cumbersome process of wiring and connecting marine electronics. For the seasoned angler or weekend boater, a reliable and easy-to-use electrical connection system is essential, so I’m eager to see if this product lives up to the hype.
My own boats have always been a rat’s nest of wires. Adding a new fish finder, downrigger, or even just a simple USB charging port always meant wrestling with wire strippers, crimpers, and the looming fear of a short circuit. I was looking for a cleaner, more reliable, and frankly, less stressful way to manage my boat’s electrical system.
The packaging was surprisingly robust. Inside, everything felt solid and well-made. The connectors are heavy-duty, and the wiring appears to be of good quality.
I considered several similar products before settling on the Connect-Ease. Competitors like Blue Sea Systems offer similar solutions, but their modular systems can become quite expensive. The Connect-Ease seemed to offer a good balance of functionality and value, particularly with its integrated auxiliary connector.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The $1135.15 price tag is steep, but if it truly eliminates the headaches of marine electrical work, it might be worth the investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector on my 21-foot center console during a complete electrical overhaul. This included connecting the outboard motor, a new fish finder, two electric downriggers, and a VHF radio. The installation took place at my dock, under relatively dry conditions, though the air was quite humid.
The standout feature was the ease of use. The “simple click” connection lived up to its promise. I had all my accessories connected within a couple of hours, a task that would have taken nearly a full day with traditional wiring methods.
There were no immediate issues or surprises. Everything connected securely, and the auxiliary connectors provided a convenient and organized way to power my accessories.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, including several offshore fishing trips and a week-long coastal cruise, the Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector has held up admirably. There are no signs of corrosion or wear and tear on the connectors. The connections remain solid, even after repeated plugging and unplugging.
Cleaning is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip seems to be all that’s needed. This is a huge improvement over my previous setup, where corrosion was a constant battle. Compared to my previous experience with haphazard wiring and unreliable connections, the Connect-Ease is a game-changer. It provides peace of mind knowing that my electrical system is robust and dependable.
Breaking Down the Features of Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector
Specifications
The Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector boasts several key specifications that contribute to its functionality and appeal:
- Saltwater Approved: This is critical for marine applications, ensuring resistance to corrosion and long-term reliability in harsh environments.
- Simple Click Connection: This allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection of the outboard motor and accessories.
- Auxiliary Connector: This provides a convenient and organized way to power additional marine electronics.
- Pack of 12 Connection Kits: This suggests the package includes multiple connection points/wires.
These specifications translate to a more reliable and user-friendly marine electrical system. The saltwater approval ensures longevity, while the simple click connection simplifies installation and maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector performs its job exceptionally well. The primary strength is its ease of use. Connections are secure, and the auxiliary connectors eliminate the need for messy wiring harnesses.
One area for potential improvement is the labeling of the connectors. While the connectors themselves are well-made, clear labeling would further simplify installation and troubleshooting. The product exceeded my expectations in terms of ease of installation and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials are rugged and durable, designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. The weight of the connectors inspires confidence in their robustness.
The system is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The click-in design makes connections intuitive, even for those with limited electrical experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Connect-Ease system appears to be built to last. The saltwater-approved materials and robust construction should ensure years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The description notes that the product can be used with Connect-Ease products like CE12VB4K, CE12VB4FK, CE12VB5K or CE12VB5FK to connect various marine accessories. It can also be used with CE12VB1S to keep a spare battery handy. The system does not appear to offer extensive customization options beyond the auxiliary connectors.
However, the versatility of the auxiliary connectors allows for the integration of a wide range of marine electronics. Compatibility with other Connect-Ease products expands the system’s functionality and allows for a tailored setup.
Pros and Cons of Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector
Pros
- Easy to Use: The click-in design makes connecting and disconnecting accessories a breeze.
- Saltwater Approved: Durable materials ensure long-term reliability in harsh marine environments.
- Organized Wiring: The auxiliary connector eliminates the need for messy wiring harnesses.
- Reliable Connections: Secure connections provide peace of mind on the water.
- Simplified Maintenance: Easy to clean and maintain, minimizing corrosion and extending lifespan.
Cons
- High Price: The $1135.15 price tag may be prohibitive for some boaters.
- Limited Customization: Beyond the auxiliary connectors, customization options are limited.
Who Should Buy Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector?
Perfect for: Boaters who value ease of use, reliability, and organized wiring. Pro anglers and serious recreational boaters who rely on a dependable electrical system. Those who frequently add or remove accessories from their boats.
Who should skip this product? Casual boaters on a tight budget. Those who are comfortable with traditional wiring methods and do not require frequent accessory changes.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Additional Connect-Ease connectors and wiring harnesses to expand the system’s capabilities. Clear labeling of connectors for simplified installation and troubleshooting.
Conclusion on Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector
The Connect-Ease Connect Ease Outboard Motor Connection With Auxiliary Connector is a well-designed and highly functional marine electrical connection system. While the price is undeniably high, the ease of use, reliability, and organized wiring make it a worthwhile investment for serious boaters. The value proposition lies in the time and frustration saved by simplifying marine electrical work.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone who wants a hassle-free and dependable way to manage their boat’s electrical system. If you’re tired of wrestling with wires and worrying about corrosion, the Connect-Ease is a game-changer. Invest in peace of mind on the water – simplify your connections today!