12V Connectors

Does anyone know where I can get some smart looking 12v sockets to install as auxilliary power supply points in my boat cabins (like mains sockets only perhaps smaller and 2 pin)

Try a good caravan shop. They have various qualities but it is just as well to have ones which can only go in one way to avoid getting the polarity reversed.

Maplin Electronics do an excellent one at about £6. It comes with a waterproof rubber cover. The code is WD68Y.

...who have a range of plugs and sockets. See www.indexmarine.co.uk for details of how to get their catalogue. They have a dedicated 12volt 2-pin socket for about £4.

Alternatively, fit the positive-locking cigar lighter type sockets (D7445 in Index catalogue). Don't fit ordinary cigar lighter sockets (such as the Maplin one suggested) - these rely on friction to keep the plug in and are generally unsatisfactory.

Avoid cigar lighter sockets like the plague, They were never designed for this purpose and make apalling connectors. Go to a caravan accessory shop there are some pleasantly styled connectors available designed for the job. Dick James

Where are all these caravan accessory shops everyone tells you to go to?

Okay, yes, they maybe as common as rocking horse poo but they are about. Also any caravan dealer has an accessory shop attached. Dick James