Block connectors - sources?

[BRG1200]

Can't see this subject in a simple search, so I'll chuck it up there.

Most of us have had projects with pretty manky looms, and I often wonder if the block connectors used (in my case old Yams) are essentially out of some Japanese electrical suppliers standard parts catalogue.

Another subject is where is the best place to buy decent auto-wire from the reel.
A friend suggested going to a car wreckers and retreiving an old car loom (lots of wire) but I don't necessarily like that approach for a couple of reasons.

Any ideas chaps?
(I suspect I'm fairly safe in saying "chaps")

[JonW]

Some of the uk online vehicle electircal parts sellers (vehicle wiring products springs to mind) had them but also ebay does too. Jaycar might be able to help as well? you could buy up old bike looms, but often the wires are trashed if theyve been out in the elements for years etc.

[oldjohnno]

You can get auto wire from ebay, as well as high quality connectors like Weatherpack and Metripack and the tools to suit.

[2TInstitute]

Can't see this subject in a simple search, so I'll chuck it up there.

Most of us have had projects with pretty manky looms, and I often wonder if the block connectors used (in my case old Yams) are essentially out of some Japanese electrical suppliers standard parts catalogue.

Another subject is where is the best place to buy decent auto-wire from the reel.
A friend suggested going to a car wreckers and retreiving an old car loom (lots of wire) but I don't necessarily like that approach for a couple of reasons.

Any ideas chaps?
(I suspect I'm fairly safe in saying "chaps")

I have managed to source most coloured wire and OEM style loom connectors. There are much better (and cheaper) water proof connectors that you can get cheaply from ebay. I can refurb(new connectors and retaped) a loom for you no probs

[James P]

For the connectors and associated bits & pieces, I've had good service from CycleTerminal (http://www.cycleterminal.com/). As well as connector bodies, his bullet, ring and spade terminals seem very good quality, unlike some Ebay sellers whose terminals are very thin and flimsy! Some connectors and terminals are also available from Jaycar and the like.

When I last bought reels of wire, I went to a local firm which made industrial wiring looms in the Sydney suburb of Moorebank (can't remember the name - it was 5+ years ago!). All the colours I bought were plain (no "tracers"), but I daresay any similar firm could advise on availability of colour combinations.

Regards,
James

[2TInstitute]

For the connectors and associated bits & pieces, I've had good service from CycleTerminal (http://www.cycleterminal.com/). As well as connector bodies, his bullet, ring and spade terminals seem very good quality, unlike some Ebay sellers whose terminals are very thin and flimsy! Some connectors and terminals are also available from Jaycar and the like.

Regards,
James

I found the terminals on chinese copy ebay connectors to be very good provided you have a decent crimping and terminal removal tool. Expect to pay around $70 or more for a decent crimping tool. One that rolls the tangs over makes the connection solid but the loom flexible. Better than soldering actually.

http://www.engineer.jp/en/products/pa09e.html

Steer clear of the Jaycar/ebay spade and ring terminals with red yellow and blue plastic over the crimp down part of the terminal they never seem to crimp hard enough

[James P]

...Steer clear of the Jaycar/ebay spade and ring terminals with red yellow and blue plastic over the crimp down part of the terminal they never seem to crimp hard enough

Too right - those are for emergency use only!

Jaycar does carry some of the "proper" all-brass terminals, but the available range is not large.

Regards,
James

[BRG1200]

Great responses guys, thanks

[phil1rowe4]

Hi,

I've used cycleterminal.com for specialised motorcycle connectors and bullet connectors. Good quality stuff.
I've also used electricscooterparts.com for some oem style 2.8mm connectors.

Jaycar cable is typically too small or too big, same with Narva cable. 3mm cable I found just a bit too heavy and inflexible for bikes. I've found 2.5mm to be better. I got some from an ebay seller in UK that had a good range of mixed colours ( with stripes, not just plain) and could buy by the metre. I just cant find them after a quick search, but worth a look.

Cheers,

Phil

[2TInstitute]

I have found nearly all the OEM style connectors at Aliexpress for very very good prices