Removing pins from cannon plugs

[yolner]

I'm referring to the plug that connects the rear harness to the front harness for example. Is there a tool to get the pins out or is there some trick to it? I've been searching the forum, but haven't found a specific thread that shows how one of these comes apart.

The reason I ask is my rear harness is pretty much toast and I'm wondering if I can reuse the trailer plug and the front to rear plug and rebuild the rest of the harness from scratch.

 

[KsM715]

There is a tool called a pin puller or pin remover. Most electronic shops will have something that will work.

*edit*. Sorry, it should be a pin insertion/extraction tool.

i would copy the website I found but can't get it to work right on my iPad. Just goggle "cannon plug pin tools". Should take you to some electronic repair type sites.

 

[wilfreeman]

Like Jeff said, they did(do) make a tool to push them out and install them - basically a hollow, thin wall punch. I found that I can remove the pins by lubing the rubber with wd40 and using a pair of needle nose pliers to push them out. This was on the fairly large pins of a trailer intervehicular cable, and I did bend the first pin that I tried to push out - I was extra careful and learned from my mistake on the rest. Installing them is easier than removing them using needle nose pliers.

 

[3dAngus]

If you purchase a pin extraction tool of the correct size for your pins, be sure to get a metal one. The plastic ones will break, especially if you are inexperienced. It is a delicate procedure, even with the correct tool.

If you use the wrong tool, there is a fairly good chance you will ruin the pin or the pin clip that holds it in place, but especially the plug that has the ring to hold the pins in place.

I would take the plug up to an electronics place and ask for help on that one if you have never done it before. A salesman would not do it. You need a technician who has done it before, over and over.

 

[yolner]

Thanks for all the tips guys. The more I read about this the more I'm starting to think it's not such a good idea. Just the removal insertion tools seem to be $150 per set. Right now I'm leaning towards using more modern Deutsch style cannon plugs instead of the old stuff.

Looking at these specifically: http://www.wirecare.com/deutsch-connectors.asp?type=Industrial&series=HDP20&contacts=8

Any particular reason you can think of why those wouldn't work just as well as the old stuff?

 

[welldigger]

Other than not being "original equipment" they should work just fine.

 

[yolner]

Awesome.

BTW for all those considering doing the same you can crimp deutsch connectors with a harbor freight ratcheting crimper ($10 item #97420) and MSD Ignition 3510 jaw set ($38 on amazon). Makes it much less expensive to get set up.