[ARC5] [Milsurplus] Large-Pin GF/RU etc. Connectors

[J. Forster]

Just a suggestion. Evicting the moisture from the inserts is a diffusion
process, and IMO, is pretty slow.

I would bake the inserts for at least 8-10 hours. It can't do any harm,
except if your XYL catches you.  :)

YMMV,

-John

======================


> Re: Using the large-pin Navy/Army connectors
> (GF/RU,. GP, SCR-183, LM etc.)
> Three people have asked me about this so I'm posting
> to the reflectors for general info.
>
> The bakelite inserts are often "frozen" in place due to uptaking
> moisture over the decades.  Put them in a ceramic bowl and
> place them in a 250 degree oven for 2-3 hours.
> Let them cool and the inserts will likely be free.
> If not, treat again.  I've only had one out of many remain stuck.
>
> To remove the inserts from those that had shielded cables
> and were "cut off," remove the insert locking screw.
> Put the connector in a bench vise, face down.
> Grip the insert with needle-nose pliers in two of the pins.
> Heat the "cut-off" end with a propane torch (stinky ;-).
> Gently pull and the insert and wires will come out.
> Use a screwdriver or something to remove the shield
> and debris while heating and you'll have a useable connector.
> Open wire vs. sheilded cable is authentic, especially later in
> the war when metals and rubber had to be carefully rationed.
>
> To put the insert back- I have a thin metal strip that was originally
> used in a relay contact burnishing tool.  It is exactly the width
> of the groove in the bakelite insert into which the locking spring
> (with the two buttons) fits.  If you can find some "springy"
> steel or similar, you can make one.  Soft metal will not work.
> This takes some practice and will be a bit frustrating at first, but it
> works.
> Hold the connector with the button holes down and place the
> leaf spring, open end to the front.   Place the metal strip in
> the bakelite groove, then place the strip's end above the leaf spring,
> compressing it.  As you align and assemble the connector,
> the metal strip will compress the leaf spring and allow
> the insert to slide right in.  Pull out the strip and align the screw
> hole.
>
> Steve is "the man" for these connectors.
> I'm grateful to him for spending his time and assets
> making these available to us.
> Here are a couple of links.  Click "other items"
> to see the many connectors he has available now.
>
> 135 connectors:
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/221149076337
>
> And I believe these are the Army version of 134:
> http://www.ebay.com/itm/140879756360
>
> 73 DE Dave AB5S
>
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