Pliers for 3M Suitcase Connectors

[SeeYou190]

ATLANTIC CENTRAL

But these connectors are not something I prefer, and would likely only use in limited ways wiring a layout.

I also would not use them on a layout.

At work, they were parts of some service kits, and for liability reasons we need to use the hardware that comes with the kits and not something better.

This rule always aggravated me, especially on kits that included low quality fasteners.

-Kevin

[hardcoalcase]

On a previous layout I used regular pliers on the connectors, they worked ok, but a bit clumsey.  So on the current layout, knowing I was going to use a LOT of connectors, I opted to go for broke ($60 IIRC) and get the special pliers, which turned out to be the right decision.

I also found another use for them.  I make my control panels from Wal-Mart document frames, the frame pieces are vinyl coated pressed paperboard, with small bent sheet-metal tabs inserted reinforcing the corners.  I cut the frame members down to the desired size and use the special pliers to re-insert the metal tabs.  The smooth parallel jaws make for the perfect tool for this.

Jim

[ATLANTIC CENTRAL]

As an experianced electrician I have always successfully used my linemans pliers or a pair of Channelocks for any of the various push to lock connectors.

But these connectors are not something I prefer, and would likely only use in limited ways wiring a layout.

Sheldon

[gregc]

i use 6" channel lock pliers

[SeeYou190]

We had the special tool at work for crimping the ScotchLok connectors. It looked like an Arrow hand held stapler.

My small pair of slip-joint pliers, similar to the Craftsman product shown, worked better.

-Kevin

[peahrens]

tstage

IIRC, Crasftsman 7" RoboGrip pliers (PN: 45028) worked very well on those suitcase connectors:

Unfortunately, its no longer made but one can find them on places like eBay.  Glad the Micro-Mark pliers are working for you.

Tom

 

Tom, someone must have suggested those RoboGrips back in 2013.  I then found them only in a 2 size set for $25 so have the 7" and a larger one, which I used.  They worked well.

[tstage]

On the RoboGrips, the lower jaw shifts outward slightly when the two jaws can't close any further so that they become parallel with one another.  This allows for even, inward pressure of the jaws on the object you are squeezing.

Tom

[BigDaddy]

I haven't used suitcase connectors yet.  Pliers like Channel Locks or old fashioned pliers have a moveable fulcrum, like Tom's pliers above.  Do they not permit you to come down squarely on a connector?

[tstage]

IIRC, Crasftsman 7" RoboGrip pliers (PN: 45028) worked very well on those suitcase connectors:

Unfortunately, its no longer made but one can find them on places like eBay.  Glad the Micro-Mark pliers are working for you.

Tom

[JPD]

After doing about 50 3M Suitcase Connectors with a variety of pliers in my workshop I became very frustrated. I remembered that Micro-Mark sold special pliers for these connectors which I have seen the guys at Model Railroad Video Plus use. The cost was like $80 or $90 and I was too cheap to purchase them. However, after my experience I decided to get them. Unfortunately, Micro-Mark no longer sells them. I did a search on eBay and found them for $24! Here is the link: https://www.ebay.com/itm/320738917071.  They arrived a few days ago and work perfectly for me. I have no relationship with the vendor other than being satisfied with the product and the cost. Just thought I would let others know.