A motor control unit (MCU) and methods of operating the same are provided. The MCU includes a housing enclosing a retractable stab assembly (RSA) having stabs attached thereto. The MCU further includes a bracket assembly having a mount for securing the bracket assembly to the RSA, guiderails for slideably engaging the RSA to facilitate the extending and retracting motion, and a lead screw accessible via an opening in the front of the housing. Rotating the lead screw causes the RSA to extend and retract which engages and disengages the stabs. The MCU also includes a motor assembly having a drive motor coupled to a drive shaft. The motor rotates the shaft in response to control signals from a remote-device. The motor assembly attaches to the housing such that the rotation of the shaft in response to the signals rotates the lead screw to engage and disengage the stabs.