Date:         Fri, 27 Apr 2007 20:18:13 -0500
Reply-To:     Matt Roberds <mattroberds@COX.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Matt Roberds <mattroberds@COX.NET>
Subject:      Re: Cleaning contacts/Oil light buzzer
Comments: cc: Nathan Mc Blain <nmcblain@YAHOO.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <20070427220836.BDYL14934.eastrmmtai113.cox.net@eastrmimpi04.cox.net>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed

> From:    Nathan Mc Blain <nmcblain@YAHOO.COM>
> Date:    Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:43:15 -0700
>
> I was just thinking maybe theres a better type connector I could
> crimp and/or solder on that would replace the cheaper ones, and be
> sealed up.

I have used and like the "Weatherpack" connectors.  They were originally
produced by GM - Packard Electric Division; this week the manufacturer is
called Delphi; next week it will be something else.  Anyway, they come
in 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6-circuit connectors and are pretty well sealed
against the elements.  They got used under the hood a lot on early 80s
through mid 90s GM cars.

Like most fancy connectors, you have to buy all the bits separately.
For a Weatherpack, this includes the connector body, the pins, and the
seals that go around the wires.  Also, like most fancy connectors, the
manufacturers assume that everyone buying them is going to have a huge
production run and can therefore amortize the $200 crimp tool over
hundreds of thousands of units.  Fortunately, like most fancy
connectors, creative use of needle-nose pliers and a regular crimp tool
(for the red/blue/yellow crimp terminals) can get you a good crimp.  For
extra security, solder after crimping.  It _is_ worth buying the
"official" removal tool (about $3) to get the pins out of the connector
body in case you make a mistake.

I have bought Weatherpacks in small quantity from Del City,
http://www.delcity.net .  They do have a $25 minimum order but it's not
hard to hit that; they also have other wiring goodies like heat shrink,
regular red/blue/yellow terminals, etc.  (Del City also used to sell
real Hella relays for about $3 each, but the last time I ordered relays
from them, they sent some Chinese brand.)  Their Weatherpack page is
at http://www.delcity.net/delcity/servlet/catalog?parentid=8598&page=1 .

Standard disclaimers apply; I don't get money or other considerations
from any companies mentioned.

Matt Roberds