Let’s Talk About Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector
The Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector is a seemingly unassuming piece of kit, but for anyone who’s ever struggled with running cables through their boat deck, RV roof, or even the wall of a hunting cabin, it’s a potential game-changer. Made by Scanstrut, this connector promises a watertight seal for cables up to 15mm (0.59″) in diameter and connectors up to 40mm (1.57″). It aims to solve a common problem: how to run wires without creating a leak-prone eyesore.
I’ve dealt with enough leaky cable entries over the years to recognize the value of a good seal. My motivation for seeking out this product stems from a frustrating experience wiring solar panels on my off-grid cabin; the “universal” sealant I used failed within a year, leading to water damage.
The Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector comes in a simple package with the connector itself, fixings, and seals. My initial impression was that the plastic felt robust and the design seemed well thought out. It’s noticeably more compact than some of the larger, bulkier cable glands I’ve used in the past.
I considered using a competitor’s product from Blue Sea Systems, known for their high-quality marine electrical components, but the Scanstrut offered a larger cable diameter capacity and a more streamlined aesthetic. Another option was a generic rubber grommet, but those never provide a truly watertight seal. I opted for the Scanstrut due to its reputation for reliability and specifically designed watertight features.
My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. I’ve been burned before by products promising easy, leak-proof installations. Only real-world testing would prove if the Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector could live up to its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector on the roof of my RV, running cables for a new roof-mounted antenna. The installation process was straightforward; drilling the required hole was simple, and the included fixings were adequate for securing the connector to the fiberglass roof. The different seal options made it easy to find the appropriate fit for my cable.
The weather during and immediately after the installation was classic Pacific Northwest: constant rain. This provided an immediate test of the Scanstrut’s watertight capabilities. There were no leaks detected, which was a promising start.
Ease of use was excellent, the instructions were clear, and the different seal options made it easy to customize the fitting to the specific cable size. There were no real surprises, just a feeling of satisfaction that the install was clean and professional.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of constant exposure to sun, rain, and even some snow, the Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector is holding up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or discoloration in the plastic, and the seal remains watertight.
The durability seems excellent. The plastic hasn’t become brittle or faded, and the seals are still pliable and effective. Minimal maintenance has been required; occasionally wiping down the connector to remove dust and grime is all it takes.
In comparison to my previous experiences with generic cable glands and sealant, the Scanstrut far outperforms them in both durability and watertightness. I am impressed by its longevity and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector
Specifications
- Connector Size: Designed for connectors up to 40mm (1.57″) in diameter. This generous size provides flexibility when running pre-terminated cables.
- Cable Diameter Range: Accommodates cables from 12-15mm (0.47″-0.59″). This is a critical specification, as using cables outside this range could compromise the seal.
- Material: Constructed from plastic. The type of plastic is not specified, but it appears to be a UV-resistant polymer designed for outdoor use.
- Color: Available in black. Black is a practical choice for outdoor applications as it blends well with many surfaces and minimizes glare.
- Length: 1.57 inches. This measurement likely refers to the height of the connector above the mounting surface.
These specifications are important because they dictate the types of cables and connectors that can be used with the Scanstrut. Matching your cable and connector dimensions to these specifications is essential for a successful, watertight installation. The UV-resistant plastic ensures longevity in harsh outdoor environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector excels at its primary function: providing a reliable, watertight seal for cables passing through a deck or wall. Its design effectively prevents water intrusion, protecting sensitive electrical components.
The primary strength of the Scanstrut is its ability to maintain a watertight seal even under harsh conditions. The main weakness is that it is designed for a limited cable size range and is not a universal solution.
The product has exceeded my expectations. The combination of ease of installation and long-term reliability is impressive.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The plastic feels robust and durable, and the seals are well-made. The design is clean and functional, with a low profile that minimizes visual clutter.
The Scanstrut is very user-friendly. The simple design and clear instructions make installation straightforward, even for someone with limited experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, I expect the Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector to last for many years. The UV-resistant plastic should prevent degradation from sun exposure, and the watertight seals should remain effective for a long time.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wiping down the connector occasionally to remove dirt and grime should be sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The kit includes the connector body, various sized seals to accommodate different cable diameters, and stainless steel fixings. There are no significant customization options for the Scanstrut itself.
While the Scanstrut doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, it is compatible with a wide range of standard marine and RV wiring accessories. Things like cable glands or wire management components from other brands can be used in conjunction with it.
Pros and Cons of Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector
Pros
- Provides a reliable, watertight seal for cables.
- Easy to install with clear instructions and included fixings.
- Durable, UV-resistant plastic construction.
- Offers multiple seal options to accommodate different cable diameters.
- Clean, low-profile design that blends well with most surfaces.
Cons
- Limited cable size range; not a universal solution.
- Relatively expensive compared to generic cable glands.
Who Should Buy Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector?
The Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector is perfect for boat owners, RV enthusiasts, and anyone needing to run cables through a surface while maintaining a watertight seal. It’s ideal for solar panel installations, antenna wiring, and any other application where water intrusion could be a problem.
Those who should skip this product are individuals working with cables that fall outside the specified diameter range, or those looking for the absolute cheapest solution, regardless of quality or reliability.
A must-have accessory for use with the Scanstrut is a high-quality sealant, to apply around the base of the unit, further improving the watertight seal.
Conclusion on Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector
The Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector is a well-designed and highly effective solution for running cables while maintaining a watertight seal. While it may be slightly more expensive than generic alternatives, its durability, ease of use, and reliability make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified by the superior quality and performance of the product. A leaky cable entry can cause significant damage, making the Scanstrut a cost-effective solution in the long run.
I would personally recommend the Scanstrut Large Deck Seal Connector to anyone in need of a reliable, watertight cable entry solution. If you value peace of mind and want to avoid the headaches of water damage, this product is a must-have. Don’t compromise on quality; get the Scanstrut and do it right the first time!