DC waterproof connectors?

[thysmeades]

Hi Guys, please would you help me in finding a supplier for Waterproof connectors for Dc current with respect to light building. Thanks so much in advance,
Thys

 

[DonShock]

Here you go.

 

[wildwood]

Or try these binder 710 series:whistle:

 

[thehick]

Ok. More of a note than anything, but the automotive world has been pulling trailers for years using non-waterproof connectors. That's what I'm using on my bike lights I build. I can see waterproofing switches so they don't corrode, but not connectors.
huh?

 

[Steve K]

Ok. More of a note than anything, but the automotive world has been pulling trailers for years using non-waterproof connectors. That's what I'm using on my bike lights I build. I can see waterproofing switches so they don't corrode, but not connectors.
huh?

It depends on what sort of conditions you regularly ride in, as well as the quality of the connectors. Personally, I try to seal up my connectors, but I don't ride in the rain on a regular basis. However, I do ride in the winter when there is salt on the roads sometimes. The connector contacts that I use have a good plating, and hold up well.

I've worked in the aerospace and automotive-type electronics business, and sealed connectors are standard there. Of course, they have higher standards than the bike industry, as well as the ability to charge customers more.

If you spend much time in the rain, sealed connectors are a good idea. Or use dielectric grease to keep moisture out of the pins and sockets. If you have a corrosion problem and really need sealed connectors, you'll eventually find out. :-)

Steve K.

 

[Frozen]

Hirose HR30 series connectors are small and nice.

 

[sideshow75]

Hi Guys, please would you help me in finding a supplier for Waterproof connectors for Dc current with respect to light building. Thanks so much in advance,
Thys

How about this?
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-70402/?image=large

It works for GM, Chrysler, and Ford. You probably can't beat the price either.

 

[Steve K]

How about this?
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/PRF-70402/?image=large

It works for GM, Chrysler, and Ford. You probably can't beat the price either.

Are those Packard connectors? Packard is fairly common in the automotive world. I work in the construction equipment business, so I only see Packard stuff now and then.

Steve K.

update: Looks like Delphi makes the Packard connectors. They have an on-line catalog, and the GT series looks similar to the summit racing part. Page 19 or so....
http://delphi.com/pdf/contact/brochures/DCS_GlobalCatalog.pdf

 

[Bacano]

hi specialists


Anyone knows where I can buy trailtech connectors other than batteryspace? Shipping to Europe is very expensive and also the products are not that cheap... I'm looking for something more affordable and also working well for in-line cable connection, giving a stable connection. Or is there any good alternative to trailtech connectors ?


thanks

 

[Jonster]

Here's a connector I found on RSWWW.com
http://uk.rs-online.com/web/search/searchBrowseAction.html?method=searchProducts&searchTerm=314-1198

 

[herulach]

IMO trailtech connectors are a bit of a waste of time. Just for giggles I poured a load of water over a trailtech connector - didnt' bother it any - because the connectors are physically separated by a big bit of plastic I can't see it ever shorting unless it's actually dunked, even then water isn't that conductive. Don't know how it will do from a corrosion point of view - but still, pins are easy to replace.

 

[clint357]

If you want to be safe, just use these. http://www.batteryspace.com/powerizer2pindwater-prooflockableconnector.aspx People use these on dive lights....so I think they would be ok for a bike light in any condition, including falling into a deep puddle. Just as a side note, make sure you use MARINE grade heat shrink on any splices. It's just like regular heat shrink, but it has a 3:1 shrink ratio and a waterproof adhesive/sealant that melts on the inside of the tube and does wonders for waterproofing and it holds the wires together tightly. You can buy it at Harbor Freight.

 

[LukeA]

Binder 620 series are IP67 rated, inexpensive, high quality, easy to use, and available in small quantities.

 

[Bacano]

wow thanks all for the good options and tips! :thumbsup: lovecpf already

 

[Ha2]

I used these Superseal connectors in my helmet light project. Very solid and easy to assemle. And they are cheap as well.

 

[Steve K]

I used these Superseal connectors in my helmet light project. Very solid and easy to assemle. And they are cheap as well.

the connectors appear to have the needed seals. Who makes them, and do they have product data online?

I've used some good sealed connectors, ranging from MS down to Deutsch DT and Tyco Ampseal. None are particularly cheap, and all are a bit bulky. They are important to have, though, if you spend any time in the rain.

regards,
Steve K.

 

[syc]

Googling around, they seem to be the "AMP Superseal" from Tyco electronics, about $1 - $3 a pop at mouser. Wish I had known about these before I put in my last order!

the connectors appear to have the needed seals. Who makes them, and do they have product data online?

I've used some good sealed connectors, ranging from MS down to Deutsch DT and Tyco Ampseal. None are particularly cheap, and all are a bit bulky. They are important to have, though, if you spend any time in the rain.

regards,
Steve K.

 

[Jonster]

eBay also have them ... I can't check now as I am at work but if you search waterproof connector I think they come up.

 

[kananga]

I've been using the same RCA connectors for three years running, riding every day in all weather conditions near Portland, OR. In fact, they've been the "switch": unplugged = off. There's nothing less waterproof than an uplugged RCA connector. Regardless, this has been the most reliable part of my lighting systems. I'd recommend worrying about battery holders first, then any actual mechanical switches.

Another good example would be some Dinotte lights. Simply a wide open 9v battery style connector. Aside from being a ridiculous short circuit hazard, it's dead reliable. The AA battery holders, not so much. The contact springs are crimped into contact plates. The dissimilar metals cause galvanic corrosion when wet. My expensive light's cheap battery holder needed replacing after its first northwest winter. But as long as the current was able to meander its way up to the connecter, that connector was still just as willing and able as ever to burn your pants to the ground if you dropped a loaded battery holder in a pocket with keys!