Field termination tool having a removable connector mounting mechanism

Abstract

A field termination tool for electrical connectors includes a connector support which is positioned between a pair of rotatably mounted insertion arms. Each of the insertion arms includes a multiblade insertion rod for engaging and pressing insulated conductors into respective insulation-piercing contact portions carried by a supported electrical connector. The connector support is constructed as a one-piece comb structure, preferably molded from glass-filled thermoplastic material with metal conductor cutting strips molded in, which is releasably engageable with the frame of the termination tool, and likewise releasably engageable with a bench-mounted support so that electrical connectors can be positioned in the comb structure and have the insulated conductors aligned with respective insulation-piercing contact portions at a point remote from the insertion tool. An insertion control mechanism takes two forms. A first form includes the provision of a ratchet on one insertion arm and a pawl on the other insertion arm which engages the ratchet and is prevented from disengagement therefrom until the arms have been moved toward each other to positions which constitute complete insertion of the conductors. A second form of control mechanism utilizes a pair of torque handles mounted on respective arms and each operable to generate a mechanical vibration or signal, e.g. an audible click, upon the application of a predetermined torque to each rotatable insertion arm. The attainment of the predetermined torque corresponds to complete conductor insertion.