Wing Root Connector Options

tx_jayhawk · #1 01-23-2007, 11:08 AM

Without getting into the debate of whether or not one should use a connector for the wing wiring, I would be curious what type of connectors people have used for a wing root disconnect? At a minimum, I have:

* Pitot heat - 14 gauge (2)
* Landing Light - 16 gauge (2)
* NAV light - 18 gauge
* TBD others

It seeems that Amp CPC circular connectors may not normally be rated for that kind of current, but I do want some sort of quality connection (no white molex).

Any ideas?

Thanks,
Scott
7A Finishing

jcoloccia · #2 01-23-2007, 11:37 AM

I haven't wired wings yet but I've always liked these for similar applications.

http://www.wsdeans.com/products/plugs/ultra_plug.html

Check with WSDeans for current capacity. I solder, heat shrink over the connector/wires, connect and then heat shrink over both connectors. What's neat about these connectors is they have very low resistance. If you do this, be sure to immobilize the wires at the solder joints. I use heat shrink but that's just me.

Knife splices would work too. Remember that you'll probably never have to demate any of them.

All that said, I'm sure AMP makes and appropriate product for this.

Not a reccomendation...just throwing it out there.

f1rocket · #3 01-23-2007, 11:50 AM

This is what I did. These are AMP bulkhead connectors. I bought them from Digikey via the Internet.

JonJay · #4 01-23-2007, 11:50 AM

Leave a service loop and butt splice either crimp or solder. In the unlikely event that your wings ever need to come off, simply cut the wires and resplice. Any mechanical connection, such as a connector or terminal, has a much higher degree of failure than a simple splice. However, done properly, any way to get the juice from point a to point b is all you care about.

szicree · #5 01-23-2007, 02:37 PM

Knife splice with shrink tubing. Simple and CHEEEEEP!!

Jekyll · #6 01-23-2007, 04:14 PM

Terminal board and ring terminals for all but my servo wires - 9-pin D-sub for that.

Jekyll

jdeas · #7 01-23-2007, 08:36 PM

Check out these connectors. They look like your basic low cost Amp connectors but each contact is a gold fork. On connection they do a full wipe. Specs say it creates a gas tight connection rated at 5 amps/circuit.
There are also many pin options depending on how you want to wire up the connector.

I have run everything from balanced sensors to power supplies through them without problem.

Series 556
http://www.edac.net/downloads/EDAC%2..._CATALOGUE.pdf
(bottom of page)

If you need more connectors on a bulkhead (with screw lock security) check out the 516 series. Digikey sells them as well.

http://dkc3.digikey.com/PDF/T071/P0213.pdf

While a bit heavy I like the security of wipe contacts and screw locks.

az_gila · #8 01-23-2007, 10:10 PM

I like these Mini-Con-X ones from DigiKey.
They are like plastic versions of Mil-Spec ones and are weatherproof. The Mini ones are good for 18 amps.

http://dkc3.digikey.com/PDF/T071/0320-0321.pdf

The Micro ones (6 pin) are good for the trim servo wires...

gil in Tucson

GAHco · #9 01-23-2007, 11:30 PM

For basic info, on whatever AMP splices / Terminals you may want to use.

http://www.gen-aircraft-hardware.com...ing&splice.pdf

Look up your data on the pdf and then go to the main menu on the left to select yor items under "Electrical"

The Webstore address is at the bottom of this post.

tx_jayhawk · #10 09-05-2008, 11:54 AM

I've heard several folks mention that they make their wing root connections inside the fuselage as opposed to in the small space between the wing/fuse.

1) If making the connection inside the fuse, how did you get the wing-side connector inside the fuse? Is there enough room to pass it through the main aileron pushrod opening without causing inteference, or did you cut a large hole in the fuse side for the connector to pass through? You could probably depin the connector and get the wires through the grommet, but that would obviously defeat the purpose of the connector.

2) Assuming you leave some slack, is there enough space to physcially make the connection inside the gap between the fuse and wing? If so, presumably people were able to secure the cable/connector assembly to the rib via a tie wrap or some other means? Any pics would be very helpful.

Thanks.
Scott
7A Almost Done