This Lewmar “Black to Blue” thruster adapter solves the compatibility gap between different generations of Lewmar thruster controllers and thruster units. Older thruster models (Black Generation) use a different type of wiring and connectors compared to the latest joystick and panel controls (Blue Generation). Instead of re-wiring everything or sticking with an outdated controller, Lewmar designed this adapter which interfaces between the new control panel and the old thruster wiring harness.
The adapter is essentially a small module/cable with two types of connectors. On one side, it features the appropriate blue connector to plug into a Blue Generation control panel (or joystick), and on the other side a black connector to plug into the terminal block or cable of the Black Generation thruster. Internally, the adapter re-maps the wires so that commands (e.g. left/right thrust, on/off, indicators) and power lines match up correctly. In this way, the new panels operate flawlessly with the old thrusters – you get all functions, including LED fault indicators, auto-off timers, etc., as if the system were originally integrated.
Installation is very simple and requires no special tools: just disconnect the thruster power, unplug the old controller (if present), connect the adapter to the existing cable (Black Gen side) and to the new Blue Gen panel. The adapter is designed to be foolproof – the connectors are unique and will only fit the correct way, clicking securely in place. The whole procedure takes only minutes.
With this adapter, you can enjoy the benefits of Lewmar’s new Blue controls – more responsive handling, improved sealing, LED status indicators, and more – without replacing your actual thruster unit or its cabling. It’s a cost-effective solution for refitting older boats, allowing you to upgrade to the latest control standards. The genuine Lewmar adapter ensures reliability and safety in the integration, unlike DIY wiring hacks, and is highly recommended by the manufacturer for any cross-generation upgrade.




