[Elecraft] Power pole connection comes loose

[Terry Schieler]

I don't use the metal PP roll pins for the same reason.  I do, however, use plastic cocktail toothpicks with satisfactory results.  Wooden toothpicks work as well, as long as it's a snug fit.

Terry, W0FM



-----Original Message-----
From: Bob K6UJ [mailto:k6uj at pacbell.net] 
Sent: Monday, December 03, 2012 9:01 PM
To: Elecraft Reflector
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Power pole connection comes loose

After a number of problems of the PowerPole connectors using the cheaper crimper tool I bought the good crimping tool for the connectors.  No more problems.
Yes they have to remain straight.  They are fairly easy to bend so be careful.  I lay a straight edge along the backside of the contactor to check for straight.  And the second big thing is you need to hear the "click"
as the pins snap in place.  Occasionally I dont hear the cick and insert a small narrow blade screwdriver alongside the wire and push down until I hear the click.  As a final check, look at the end of the connector when finished.  You can see if the curved end of the metal contactor has snapped over the contactor in the power pole.  These two things, making sure you dont bend the contactor and checking for the "click" are the secret to good connections all the time with the PowerPoles.

Another discussion is about whether to push in the roll pin to lock the PP connectors side by side.
My preference is not to use the roll pins.  I have had the roll pins drop out.  That is the last thing I want is for one of them to fall down inside a radio.  Unfortunately they dont always stay in snugly like they should.
Your call.


73,
Bob
K6UJ