You do have the right crimping tool right? For any contact work, a round crimping tool that provides a multi-indent crimp is better, although for the light-weight contacts a good flat pressure crimper will work. There is also a well-defined part number coding system that helps as well… One of my favoured online sources is WireCare, which has information about the connectors and makes it quite easy to order the needed components.Īlso, other specific options can be ordered as desired, such as cover boots, sealing plugs, contact removal tools, etc. Here’s a general and unofficial guide I developed: So time spent in getting to know the connectors and how most suppliers configure their ordering mechanisms is good. Getting the right tool for the right job means using the right Deutsch DT connector for a specific application, with placement, electrical load and thus wiring all important factors. This component listing and photo reveals how the pieces fit together: The two-piece connector uses keyed components for both the Socket and the Pin housings, with the Socket housing fitting tightly into the Pin housing and a top-latch securing the assembly together. However, larger multi-pin and array connectors are used throughout many vehicle harnesses for efficiency in minimizing the number of harnesses used. The most common connectors used for recreational vehicles and motorcycles are the two, three and four place (pin) connectors. The main thermoplastic housing components have a -55 C to +125 C operating range, meaning they will withstand the temperatures encountered at or near most engines and surrounding components. The connectors are built up from several modular components to form a ruggedized waterproof connector. Most of the electrical work on a motorcycle involves 14 to 22 gauge wiring with the odd requirement for 8-12 gauge leads.Īs such, the Deutsch DT Series connectors are appropriate, with DTM (Miniature) and standard DT series components the norm along with DTHD (Heavy Duty) single-pin connectors used for high amperage requirements like battery leads. More than a few riders have asked about the connectors I use when installing electrical components on the motorcycles I own and for others.Īnd because webBikeWorld provides insight into all things moto-related, hopefully this article will pique some interest.Ĭlose-up view of pin sockets (L) and weatherproof seal (R). Since then the company has grown steadily into a global force and been instrumental in fielding innovative connector products for demanding environments such as space, aerospace, racing and defense, along with marketing their products to consumers. The Deutsch Group, now part of TE Connectivity, Ltd., was founded in 1938 in California by a pioneer in the industrial connector industry, Alex Deutsch. The Deutsch connectors are very easy to use and if assembled correctly, they provide years of trouble free weatherproof service. I must admit that where simplicity and expediency is absolute, Posi-Tap and Posi-Lock productsremain my favourite solution.īut “the right tool for the right task” means there are times when a large wire harness needs a connector that can accept multiple wires while also providing a quick-disconnect capability.ĭepending on the situation, this is where a Deutsch connector and related components come into play. This work has involved the use of most of the common wiring connector types simple and complex, small and large. I have done a fair bit of electrical work on motorcycles over the years, including rewiring harnesses and wiring power distribution systems.Īnd don’t forget all those electrical accessories that we can’t resist. With a little bit of practice, creating your own professional-looking harness using a Deutsch connector is simple and - best of all - fun! I’ve been using the Deutsch DT Series connectors for more than five years on every motorcycle that has been or is part of my home fleet and have experienced zero failures. Look closely at the wiring on your motorcycle and chances are you will find a Deutsch connector used for one or more of the essential electrical connections.ĭeutsch connectors may be a bit larger than other connector types, such as Posi-Locks.īut when you need multi-wire and multi-pin connectivity in an extremely ruggedized and weatherproof housing, they are hard to beat.Ī Deutsch connector has more parts than most other connectors on the market.īut in this instance, the sum of the parts does equal a greater whole and this connector can be disassembled if necessary for repair or re-use never a bad thing. Here’s an introduction to Deutsch connectors and a quick how-to on rolling your own. You’ve probably seen them as an OE (original equipment) installation on your motorcycle.īut individual motorcyclists can also use these weatherproof and sturdy connectors.
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