Turn signal switch connector

[OakTownFunky]

1963 Valiant 4 door.

I’m going to start working on rebuilding and cleaning up my steering column and coupler but can’t for the life of me get the connector from the turn signal switch disconnected.

I’ve read that early models had to be de-pinned then popped back in. I already have a set of terminal picks to do the job but which side should I go at it from? Switch side or dash side? Any tips? Or can I avoid de-pinning all together?

Thanks!

 

[niceolddart]

As far as I know, the pick should go in from the side that the wires enter the connector, at least all the ones I've done.

 

[67Dart273]

Those LOOK like fairly common Packard terminals, Likely are corroded and stuck.

 

[Mattax]

If its the 'Packard' type terminals the tool goes in from the side your're not showing us.

To remove the covers, depress the terminal's retaining barb. There's a little cutout in the plastic to slip a tool in.
View attachment 1716096323

View attachment 1716096324

Then the terminal can be slid out the back.

The conductors should be firmly held in the 1st crimp and the insulation held by the second crimp.
Other things that go wrong include the locking tab not locking to the connector and female terminal not gripping the male mating tab.

View attachment 1716096325

View attachment 1716096326

For male terminals, squeeze the the side barb

My '67 uses a different connector at the steering column so I can't reference it for your 63

 

[4spdragtop]

Maybe spray elec cleaner in between? Is there tabs/clips on the short side of black connector?

 

[halifaxhops]

That is a two piece connector, it should come apart.

 

[OakTownFunky]

Alright. Off to grab some electrical cleaner, a six pack and a prayer.

Worst case scenario I clip the wires and pop on some fresh connectors which I was hoping to avoid because wires.

 

[Mattax]

For the plastic into plastic housings, it takes patience and bunch of wiggling, and some pulling.

I would not cut wires for multiple reasons.
Worst case would break the plastic connector.

 

[Mattax]

Probably just tight.

Might be this one. in the 1964 book

Also in the '65 parts book

 

[OakTownFunky]

Probably just tight.

Might be this one. in the 1964 book
View attachment 1716396744

Also in the '65 parts book
View attachment 1716396745

Thanks! Fingers crossed I can get this thing off without too much hassle.

 

[OakTownFunky]

Update: After some elec cleaner, fussing, cussing, and wiggling they came apart.

Now to clean it all up so they come apart easier next time.

 

[Mattax]

There's some good points about about tight electrical connections. Hope the terminals are in good shape. Some are plated with tin or silver which helps prevent oxidation.

 

[OakTownFunky]

There's some good points about about tight electrical connections. Hope the terminals are in good shape. Some are plated with tin or silver which helps prevent oxidation.

They’re actually in really good shape. I think they were just being stubborn, like many parts on the car, from not being disconnected for who knows how long.

A good dusting and a little dielectric grease will have them back in business.

 

[mopowers]

My advice is to listen to whatever Mattax says. He's the in-house electrical expert. The dude knows his ****, that's for sure.