It seems literally impossible to exactly follow directions and retrofit a SmartPlug on a 30 Amp power cord. The directions call for cutting back the out side (typically) yellow insulation 1.25 inches. Then stripping the three individual wires back .50 inches. Under such circumstances its impossible to insert each of the the wires into the connector holes in the back of the SmartPlug as there isnt enough free room to bend the wire the 90* necessary to insert the wire into the female connector. If you strip back the yellow then the plastic gripers don't engage. Its difficult but since your committed because you already swapped out the inlet on the boat side, you have to improvise. Ok --maybe there is a "trick" borne of year of electrical work someone knows and can share. All I know was that I was a bit frustrated.