Insulation for 3-Way butt connectors

[PSR]

There are a couple of junctions in the navigation light circuit on my boat where three way butt connectors like this:

seem like the right way to make the connections (navigation light circuit splits to go forward and aft, starboard forward splits off to port nav light). These connectors do not have insulation, and the two for each junction sit side by side. What's the proper way to install and insulate them-or is there a better way to deal with these two junctions?
Thanks!

 

[damauney]

I use Hydralink. They work well and insulate. Just Google it.

Good Winds
DaveM

 

[centerline]

those are not dependable connectors for a boat.... you never know when corrosion will start to grow and you will either lose connection, or worse, lose the ability to carry the amperage necessary to the component....
why is it worse you ask?... because its difficult to know why the component isnt working properly when you think its all fine, when in reality, it isnt getting full power, and once you do find out, its difficult to locate the cause.... although in your case, you would just need to go directly to that connector and replace it to solve the problem.
and... when you have a connection that has lost its ability to transfer the amps across the terminals, yet does NOT lose its continuity, it can build heat and have a melt down with the possibility of a fire...

but if all you are interested in is insulation, use black tape or the paint on "tape"..... but I would never recommend doing it this way.

 

[Stu Jackson]

I used them many years ago until Maine Sail dissuaded me from them. The moving middle link is prone to failure and poor connectivity. Plus the crimp parts are cheap.

I replaced them with terminal blocks and O ring connectors on the wire, a single post would do. I actually simply cut down a shielded term strip.

There are a couple of junctions in the navigation light circuit on my boat where three way butt connectors like this:

seem like the right way to make the connections (navigation light circuit splits to go forward and aft, starboard forward splits off to port nav light). These connectors do not have insulation, and the two for each junction sit side by side. What's the proper way to install and insulate them-or is there a better way to deal with these two junctions?
Thanks!

 

[PSR]

I use Hydralink. They work well and insulate. Just Google it.

Good Winds
DaveM

Thanks Dave. I've ordered some hydralink connectors from Sherco Auto & Marine.
Best wishes,
Peter

 

[PSR]

Thanks for weighing in, Centerline. Good advice....

 

[PSR]

Thanks for your advice, Stu. It's always good!
Peter