8 replies to this topic

[mini-mad-mark]

I am now starting to think about the wiring for the kit car - being fibreglass needs earth returns plus I want to add some stuff as I go along to incorporate into the loom - heavily based on the mini diagram but with mods

 

I'm looking for some opinion/info on wiring connectors and where I can find what I think I need

 

I don't really like the look of the pre-insulated spade connectors (red yellow blue ones) and would prefer to use non-insulated with the clear sleeves - opinion?

 

I can't seem to find a definitive set where there are sleeves for both sides to insulate the whole joint, mainly sleeves only for the female side - am I missing something? (there was a set from Car Builder Solutions with male AND female sleeves but now discontinued)

 

I will try to make the loom so the cables run directly to the item without joins as much as possible  and also some multi plugs where possible but I think there will be some cases where I need to make a male/female joint  for convenience or fitting (like the front/rear loom split in a mini) and they will need to be insulated both sides.

 

Any thoughts/experience (example pictures would be great!) or should I even be thinking of something a bit more modern/hi-tech

 

 

One other quick question - are the spades on the sides of the standard rocker switches 4.8mm (or 3/16" inch-perial if you prefer)? 

[GraemeC]

I think VWP kits have both:

https://www.vehiclew...it-british-type

 

they certainly sell them individually:

https://www.vehiclew...blade-terminals

non-insulated terminates are much better than insulated as they crimp onto the insulation of the wire and provide some mechanical support to the crimp.

Edited by GraemeC, 04 June 2020 - 09:14 PM.

[Spider]

I do agree on the soft sleeves on the 1/4" quick connections, I don't like the pre-insulated types one bit. Off hand, I don't know of the soft sleeves for the Male terminal.

 

However,,, I feel for this the Lucas style Bullet Connectors are a better option. I'd suggest a sealed type of multipin connector for making a disconnect between the car and the fibreglass front end, so if / when you remove it, this aspect will at least be easier.

[KTS]

i wouldn't use the standard insulated connectors. Non-insulated terminals are far superior if applied with a good quality crimping tool and some heat shrink on the tail

definitely worth considering more modern connectors options that are available - especially for exposed areas

3waycomponents in Luton have a good range of connectors, autosparks and 12volt planet are a decent source of cables, switches etc

[mini-mad-mark]

Thanks for the quick replies - I'm probably a couple of weeks away from starting but want to get some parts ready  

 

One of those things where it is easy to buy too much stuff I think but I don't want to have too little either and have to keep waiting so its a balance.

 

 

Cheers Again

[cal844]

What I do is buy the uninsulated crimp connectors and use the heat shrink with the glue.

You want a high quality connector and heat shrink, you'll also need the tool to crimp them. Personally my advice is to buy an electric or hydraulic crimp tool as you'll be doing lots of crimping so it does get really painful. I know from using manual crimp tools I get spasms in my hands for a couple of hours, sometimes pain too...
if I have to make numerous connections.

Kind regards

Cal

Edited by cal844, 04 June 2020 - 09:57 PM.

[Bobbins]

Have a look at www.polevolt.co.uk. They have pretty well all the wiring colours you’ll need (1mm thin wall cable) and connectors. I use simple heat shrink to insulate the male ends and the clear clip on covers for the female ends. Car Builder Solutions do a really good value crimping tool.

[Cooperman]

Auto Electrical Supplies of Tenbury Wells are excellent.

They have an on-line catalogue and orders are promptly sent.

Prices are good too.

[mini-mad-mark]

Cheers All - will need to do some studying I think