Marinco 2018BP-24 4-Wire 12/24V Trolling Motor Plug - Simple

Our review of the Marinco 2018BP-24 finds it a straightforward solution for anglers and small-boat owners who need a reliable way to connect a trolling motor and a battery charger without extra switches. The biggest reason to buy is its integrated 4-wire design that lets users switch between trolling and charging by simply swapping plugs, eliminating a separate charge/run switch. It is especially useful for DIY installations and seasonal boat setups where durability and simplicity matter more than complex electronics.

Key Features

• 4-Wire Trolling/Charging System: Eliminates the need for a separate charge/run switch so you can switch between trolling and charging with two simple plugs.
• 12/24V Compatibility: An internal jumper supplies either 12V or 24V power to the trolling motor when plugged in, giving flexibility for common boat battery setups.
• Boat Receptacle Installation: The receptacle mounts on the boat to create a fixed, neat connection point for the motor and charger leads.
• Simple Plug Pairing: Mount the black plug on the trolling motor and the red plug on the charger leads so connecting to troll or charge is intuitive and quick.
• Durable Construction: Made from quality materials intended for sport type boating use, providing a robust connection in typical marine environments.

Who It's For

This plug is aimed at anglers, small-boat owners, and DIYers who run electric trolling motors and want a no-nonsense wiring arrangement that reduces switches and wiring complexity. It is ideal when you want a fixed receptacle on the boat and a clear method to alternate between motor power and charger connection.

Those who need advanced electronic features, sealed multi-function connectors, or integrated charging systems with wet-location indicators should look elsewhere. If a manufacturer-specific connector or unusual voltage configuration is required, choose a part matched to that system rather than this general-purpose plug.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Simple 4-wire design removes a charge/run switch and reduces installation steps.
• Internal jumper supports both 12V and 24V setups for common battery configurations.
• Clear plug color coding and mounting arrangement make trolling versus charging obvious and fast.
• Constructed from quality materials suitable for sport boating use and routine handling.

Cons

• Not a sealed multi-function connector, so users should ensure proper protection from heavy exposure to water.
• Feature set is intentionally simple and does not include advanced charging circuitry or indicator lights.

Specifications

Product Type	Trolling motor plug (male)
Wiring	4-wire trolling/charging system
Voltage	Jumpered for 12V and 24V
Installation	Receptacle mounts on boat, plug mounts on motor/charger leads
Color	Black plug (motor), Red plug for charger leads
Use Case	Sport type boating, trolling motors

Our Verdict

The Marinco 2018BP-24 is a practical, well-made option for anyone wanting a clean, reliable method to connect a trolling motor and charger without extra switching hardware; its 4-wire, jumpered 12/24V design delivers clear value for small boats and anglers who prioritize simplicity and durability over added electronics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this plug handle both 12V and 24V systems?
Yes, an internal jumper supplies either 12V or 24V power to the trolling motor when plugged into the receptacle.

How do you switch between trolling and charging?
Install the receptacle on the boat, mount the black plug on the trolling motor and the red plug on the battery charger leads, then plug the appropriate color to troll or to charge.

Is the plug suitable for heavy exposure to water?
It is made from quality materials for sport boating, but it is not described as a sealed multi-function connector, so protect it from prolonged direct immersion.