Console Wiring Harness

[Woodinator]

Almost done repowering and rewiring the 170.  Looking for suggestions for the best aftermarket connector to use for making quick-disconnects between the engine and the instrument panel and switches.    Want to be able to disconnect and easily move the console if necessary (without having to disconnect all the wiring from each individual instrument.  The NAMZ deutsch connectors look nice but I think they need a special tool to install.  Need at least an 8 pin connector for my OMC engine wiring, and probably another 6-8 pin connector for the rest of the switches.

suggestions?

[flounderpounder225]

Many possible brands and sizes out there, here is just a quick look at McMaster...
http://www.mcmaster.com/#watertight-ele ... rs/=d8c06n

[wingtime]

Depends on how many conductors you need.  I'd look into a Molex type connector.

Here is a place to start but you get the idea.

http://order.waytekwire.com/products2/M ... 550/800/1/

[Woodinator]

Thanks guys! Both are excellent sites I was not aware of...

Shoud I assume I need a specialty tool to assemble these multi-pin plugs?

[flounderpounder225]

Thanks guys! Both are excellent sites I was not aware of...

Shoud I assume I need a specialty tool to assemble these multi-pin plugs?

Usually the pins go in easy, but require a little tool, or home made device to release the locking tabs on the pins, sometimes a paper clip or very small micro screwdriver will work.  Also, I would tin the pins, and solder the wires in the barrel end of the pins

[seabob4]

Deutsch pins and Molex pins do require special crimpers, although molex pins can be done with needle nose pliers.  But if you want quality, go with Deutsch.  Not only are they pretty waterproof, they are easily unplugged.  Try unplugging a 9-pin Molex after it has sat for a couple years... :x

[Woodinator]

That's exactly what i was just told by the rep at a local marine electrical supply business who carries deutsch.  The connectors are pretty cheap but the tool to crimp the pins to the wires is 'SPENSIVE!!!      Anybody know if a handheld fishing compound crimptool plus solder could be made to sufficiently do the job on the amphenol (sp?) pins? ...and I'm talking about the better tools that have smooth, round-grooved jaws, evenly capture the piece to be crimped, and act like a mini nicopress tool.

SB4 - Appreciate the pointer on the ease of removal!  HATE trying to open old stiff connectors. Am I going about this wrong though, or do you use similar connectors on your jobs?

[seabob4]

That's exactly what i was just told by the rep at a local marine electrical supply business who carries deutsch.  The connectors are pretty cheap but the tool to crimp the pins to the wires is 'SPENSIVE!!!      Anybody know if a handheld fishing compound crimptool plus solder could be made to sufficiently do the job on the amphenol (sp?) pins? ...and I'm talking about the better tools that have smooth, round-grooved jaws, evenly capture the piece to be crimped, and act like a mini nicopress tool.

SB4 - Appreciate the pointer on the ease of removal!  HATE trying to open old stiff connectors. Am I going about this wrong though, or do you use similar connectors on your jobs?

Nope, adhesive filled heat shrink butts, eliminate the plugs, which are usually Molex.  My customers who want their boats re-wired have no intention of getting rid of them, nor swapping out switch panels/gauge panels/etc.  And if they want to add "things", they just call me...