Wiring problems.... need help!

[(RIP) willstatt]

Since fitting my Verns panniers, I've been a bit concerned about the way they partially hide the rear indicators. I've now bought some LED repeaters that I'm going to fix on the outer rear edge of each pannier, and wire them in with the existing indicators.

The problem is, that I quite often remove and remount my panniers, and so I need some sort of quick connection for the wiring to the additional indicators.

I CAN'T FIND A SUITABLE CONNECTOR ANYWHERE!!!

There are plenty of bullet type, or spade connectors, but these aren't really suitable for regular connection/reconnection.

What I really need is a good quality male/female connector (two pin) that is preferable weatherproof. Something like the connector for the various leads on an Optimate charger would be perfect, but where can I get something like that from?

I've searched the 'net to the best of my ability with no success. I've trawled through Farnells website, and can't find anything, yet can't believe there isn't something available somewhere? Everything I find is some sort of semi permanent, or crimp type connector.

Any help or pointers much appreciated.

Will

 

[Mouse]

This might be suitable: go to http://www.maplin.co.uk/ and search for "race pack". The battery packs used in radio controlled model cars use connectors a lot like the Optimate ones. They aren't waterproof though, but I'm not sure that would matter.

 

[(RIP) willstatt]

Thanks

Thanks Mouse.... that looks just the thing... looks the same as the thing that is on the optimate. As you say, probably not waterproof, but I can get round that I think,.... unless of course someone knows where to a similar waterproof item?

Will

 

[Deleted account 240901001]

These boys have exactly what you need.... http://www.vehicle-wiring-products.co.uk/VWPweb2000/homepage/home.html

SWP2 is the part number...

 

[(RIP) willstatt]

Fantastic

Even better!

Perfect, Uglee, thankyou very much, exactly what I was looking for.

Many thanks

Will

 

[Fanum]

Will....I've been thinking of doing precisely the same for exactly the same reasons..I've been looking for a set of LEDs that combine two level brightness Red lights with single brightness amber LED's......I finally decided on getting some flexible strip ones of each colour and doing the same as you've just asked, having a w/proof connector to take them on and off....

I'd really appreciate any poics of the set up when it's done

PS i was thinking of routing the cable inside the botom crease of the boxes inside stereo system box conduit (it's about 4 mmx6mm x 4mm with a click-in 'top' to it), then silicone sealing around the conduit to make it safe and bash proof......then taking the wire out via a waterproof cable gland (I've got loads of them from work)...any thoughts on how you're going to deal with this aspect??

(PS let me know if you need any glands and I'll dig a few out for you)

 

[(RIP) willstatt]

Fanum

Haven't really worked out my method yet. Was waiting till I'd got all the necessary bits together. This connector thing had been slowing progress but now I think I've sourced everything.

Have you got Verns panniers?

I vaguely think I'm going to do the following; mount the lights in the upper outer corners, run the wires round inside under the overhang of the box then down to the level of the mounting frame where I will drill out. I've lined my boxes with thin cork, so will sink the wire in that where necessary. I imagine the plug/socket being just near where the pannier frame joins to the bike.

Haven't examined any of the above in detail, and will keep you posted when I start doing the job.

Would be very gratefull for a couple of the glands, as I've been intending to use some sort of grommet and silicone, but your idea would be a lot better and neater.

I'll post some pics when I get started.

cheers

Will