Kimball Midwest Blog

All About Auto Terminals

Written by Kimball Midwest | April 11, 2024

 

When it comes to the auto industry, connectivity is key. That’s where auto terminals come in. They allow electrical connections to be made between different parts of a vehicle.

 

Since auto terminals play such a crucial role in ensuring efficient and reliable electrical connections within vehicles, having the right kind is key.

 

There are different types of terminals to choose from. Each offers their own unique features tailored to various auto applications.

 

Weatherpack

Weatherpack series terminals are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them an ideal choice to produce waterproof connections in applications where reliability is critical.

 

The system consists of male and female terminals that are crimped into place with a cable seal. The terminal and seal are then installed in mating connector shells that contain silicone seals.

 

Mating shells lock together to prevent accidental pull-out, and terminals can be removed from the shells only with special extractor tools. This combination of seals and locks assures maximum reliability and performance. Once assembled, the system is completely environmentally sealed.

 

Metri-Pack

Metri-Pack series terminals are known for their compact design and reliability and are used to make connections with high-current capability.

 

They are also ideal for heavy-duty applications and provide exceptional performance on heavy duty equipment, agricultural equipment, off-road equipment, over-the-road trucks and other demanding applications. 

 

The system consists of male and female terminals that are crimped into place with a cable seal. The terminal and seal are then installed in mating connector shells that also contain silicone seals. Like Weatherpack terminals, once assembled, the system is completely environmentally sealed.

 

Deutsch

Deutsch series terminals are known for their ruggedness and reliability wherever high-quality sealed connections are required.

 

Their environmentally sealed connectors are designed for cable-to-cable application on the engine, under the hood, on the chassis or under the cab.

 

They feature locking wedges to provide positive contact retention and are snapped into place after all contacts are installed.

 

Tools

 

Weatherpack / Metri-Pack Terminal & Seal Crimper 

This tool crimps sealed Metri-Pack terminals, as well as Weatherpack terminals and seals with one tool. Its unique parallel jaw design eliminates the problem of terminals rocking out of position and keeps the tool compact in size.

 

3 Pc. Deutsch Terminal Crimp Tool Set

For Deutsch terminals, this three-piece set is a cost-effective alternative to Deutsch brand crimping tools but produces the same reliable crimps on Deutsch closed barrel terminals.

 

These are easy to use and feature cushion grip handles, which reduce hand fatigue during extended use.

 

Deutsch Terminal Crimp Tool

This tool features superior quality and production-quality crimps. Its eight-indent crimping provides a secure connection to the wire. Its ratcheting mechanism provides a perfect crimp every time. The handles will not release until the crimp cycle is fully completed, helping eliminate under- or over-crimped contacts.

 

When selecting terminals, it is essential to consider what they will be used for and the environment in which they will be used. Making the decision can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Your Kimball Midwest sales representative can assess which auto terminals would work best for you and your shop. If you don’t already have a rep, we can help you