How to Wire the WP2 Marine Accessory

By BOSS Audio Systems | Life at Full Volume | Published: 2026-10-28

Category: How-to Guides

Learn step-by-step how to wire the BOSS Audio WP2 24-inch RGB whip for your boat, including waterproof connections and RF remote setup.

Quick Answer

Wire the BOSS Audio WP2 by connecting its power and ground leads to your boat's electrical system, ensuring a waterproof connection with marine-grade heat shrink and dielectric grease.

Why Proper Wiring Matters

The WP2 is an IP67-rated RGB whip designed to withstand sand, dust, dirt, and rain. But that ruggedness only helps if your wiring is just as protected. A poor connection can cause flickering, short circuits, or even damage the whip's electronics.

Because the WP2 uses a 360° RGB design with 20 color combinations and 15 brightness levels, it draws a moderate amount of current. Using the correct wire gauge and a fused power source is essential to avoid overheating.

Choosing the Right Power Source

You can tap into an accessory circuit or wire directly to the battery. Tapping into an existing circuit is simpler but may introduce noise or overload the circuit. Direct battery connection is more reliable but requires an inline fuse close to the battery.

For most boat setups, a 12V DC source is standard. Confirm your boat's voltage before connecting the WP2 to avoid damage.

Step-by-Step Wiring Guide

Disconnect the battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work to prevent shorts or accidental activation. Never skip this step—it protects you and your boat's electrical system.
Plan the wire route: Decide where to mount the WP2 and run the power and ground wires. Keep the wires away from sharp edges, moving parts, and heat sources. Use grommets where wires pass through metal. A clean route reduces wear and makes future maintenance easier.
Connect the ground wire: Attach the WP2's ground wire to a clean, bare metal chassis point or the negative bus bar. Use a ring terminal and star washer for a solid connection. A poor ground is a common cause of flickering or dim LEDs.
Connect the power wire: Use an inline fuse rated for the WP2's current draw (check the manual for the exact rating) and connect the power wire to the fuse, then to the battery positive or an accessory circuit. Keep the fuse as close to the power source as possible. The fuse protects the whip and your boat from short circuits.
Make waterproof connections: Use marine-grade butt connectors and heat shrink tubing with adhesive lining to seal each splice. Apply dielectric grease inside the connectors before crimping to prevent corrosion. Even though the WP2 is IP67, your splices are not—protect them.
Test the whip: Reconnect the battery and power on the WP2. Use the RF remote to cycle through the 22 dynamic modes and 20 color combinations to confirm all LEDs work. If any color is missing, check your connections and ground.
Secure and tidy the wiring: Use zip ties or wire looms to secure the wires along the route, ensuring they don't sag or chafe. Leave a small service loop at the whip connection for easy removal. Neat wiring prevents snags and makes future access easier.

Product Facts

WP2: The WP2 is IP67 rated and sealed with all-weather waterproof silicone insulation that protects from sand, dust, dirt, and rain. This means you can mount it in exposed areas without worrying about weather damage, but you still need to protect the wiring connections to maintain that waterproof integrity.
WP2