My 12 ft Jon boat has been wired for the necessary lighting to be used at night. It was however not done too well,and I want to redo it.

I have the socket on the transom for the pole light similar to whats in the link:

http://www.wholesalemarine.com/p/ATT-911339-7/Stern+Navigation+Light+Plug-in+Base.html

It has 2 leads coming out of it.

When I wire this in,how can I tell which wire is +(positive/Hot) and which is -(Negative/Ground) Both of these wires are black.

If I just chance it and guess which wire goes to what,whats the worst thing that can happen when I reverse the polarity to the light? Will I zap the bulb?

I know not alot can happen since its only 12 volt,but I hate surprises.

Im sure this is an easy enough item to wire in,but electronics and wiring arent my strong suite.

Does not really matter...but, usually the positive wire will come  out of the center of the socket.

Like FishinDaddy said, it makes no difference whatsoever.  A light bulb doesn't care which way you wire it.

I appreciate the replies,I did a little research and found instructions on how to wire it up from ATTWOOD. They basically say to take one wire(of choice) and run it to the positive side and the other to negative/ground.

Like I said I was sure it was really a simple answer,but I was in doubt so I had to ask. Thanks again for the responses.