Got back to the fuel pump. Well the warranty is 1 year.......
I have 2 "flat blade connectors" 3 inches from the fuel pump so I can replace the fuel pump when it goes. You know - the little steel connectors that are sold at all auto supply stores. They are OK, I guess, for autos but they are junk for airplanes. The 12 VDC was arriving in the flat blade but the female connector (clinging so tightly to the male) - had no voltage. There was enough corrosion between the 2 that the second was insulated from the first.
I was surprised when I tried to pull the male and female apart; the fuel pump started.
Where do we buy better connectors?:D
Title: Electrical connectors - an accident waiting...
Post by: D on April 08, 2006, 11:11:38 PM
Yikes! Glad you found it on the ground, Bruce!!
I've had great luck with the PIDG blade connectors from Digikey, Allied Electronics, Mouser, SteinAir, Waytek, or any of the aircraft houses (for a modest markup). Much better than the auto/stereo store variety... and when coupled with a decent crimp tool you'll get a good, gas-tight connection with extra strain relief.
The PIDG variety costs a little extra but they're well worth the peace of mind. I've even added a length of heat shrink tubing over a few connections just to be double-damn sure. :wink:
D
Title: Electrical connectors - an accident waiting...
Post by: JonC on April 12, 2006, 01:24:16 PM
Use those, slide a plastic tube onto one side, connect them, slide it over the connectors then put a ziptie in the middle. The ziptie will prevent the connector from coming apart, the plastic will prevent arcing and the connectors themselves connect tighter if they are ever pulled on.
These are very common place in certified aircraft.[/url]
Title: Electrical Connectors - an accident waiting...
Post by: Bruce Hughes on April 13, 2006, 10:26:15 PM
Hi. I called all of the businesses that D listed and ordered a supply of 3 different types (male, female, and ring) from Waytek. I was impressed by the on line catalog and the help from an employee on the phone. They have minimum order rules but they gave me a good deal on that.
The connectors are copper with tin plating. This type will be highly resistant to corrosion, I think. I know that tin is used in distilled water plumbing in preference to stainless steel.
They also carry a high temp. type which is steel with nickel plating. I don't think I need those.
One of the businesses carried aluminum which I do not trust because the corrosion that I have seen on aluminum parts in the Longeze.
Digikey was, by far, the most expensive because you have to order a pkg of 1000.