Potentially stupid question Harley Ignition & Harley Electrics Discuss Potentially stupid question in the Harley Tech & Harley How-to forums; Hello all! I've got what may be a stupid question. I'm installing an auxillary brake lamp that is mounted on the sissy bar. In order to wire this bad boy ...

[chipster]

Hello all!

I've got what may be a stupid question. I'm installing an auxillary brake lamp that is mounted on the sissy bar. In order to wire this bad boy in, I have to remove 3 pin connectors from the rear lighting connector assembly. I'm able to separate the two halves of the connector, but am unable to remove the wiring connectors from the connector. How the heck do I get them to release from the connector with out breaking the wires, and still be able to use said pin connectors elsewhere in the wiring?

Thank you in advance for all help!

[aceharleywrench]

Chip,
The service manual has detailed instructions on connector disassembly,I don't know how to paint you a visual picture just by typing a reply here,but if you don't have access to the manual let me know & I'll try to explain it,

[Bigincher]

The only stupid question is the one not asked.

[unfknblvbl]

get a paper clip and straighten one end out, if you look at the bottom of the connector you will see a tiny "indention" in the connector (there is a little nipple that locks the wire connector in place), slip the straightened end of the paper clip into the connector under the wire, feel around and you will hit that indented part, apply just a little more pressure and that wire should slip right out. Does any of that make sense?

I wrestled around with that for hours (literally) and finally got it. Hope that helps....

[botzman]

Chipster,

Unfkn has the right idea. If you've never done it before it will fight you a bit. HD makes a tool that makes it simpler BUT I find using a straight head eyeglass screwdriver works the best for me. I also found pushing the wire inward into the connector block before inserting the removal tool relieves the pressure on the locking tab, making it release easier. If you have a magnifying glass you can easily look into the connector block and see exactly how the locking tab holds it together. Maybe you can see in there but not me, getting old and the eyes are going. Good luck. BOtz

[rjrivero]

A visual may help. Those are AMP connectors. So they function kind of like this:



I suggest a big heavy SAFETY PIN to get under the tang. The trick is to lift the tang with GENTLE pressure pulling the wire from the back. Don't pull harder, work the pin to raise the tang. With a little practice, it's pretty easy.

[evoKENevo]

Hey,Chip
Thanks for asking this "stupid question"...it saves ME from ever having to ask it and I'm sure we're not the only ones who'll appreciate the answers given here.

[chipster]

Like the forgetful person that I sometimes am, I almost neglected to come back here and say a big "Thank You" to everyone that replied and helped me with my wiring connector question. I really appreciate the way that all of you stepped up to help me out, and it worked! The auxillary light is working great and once I got the wiring concern addressed, it was a piece of cake.

Thanks again!

[unfknblvbl]

Chip- Good to hear man. I was wondering if you were ever able to get it.

[Buzz Kanter]

Well how cool is this? One forum member asks a question about modifying the electrics on his Harley and he gets a bunch of great responses and even an active illustration.

I really am excited by how this forum is growing and want to thank everyone for pitching in.