Waterproof grounding connector and method of assembling same

Abstract

A waterproof grounding connector is securable to a grounding surface and capable of receiving a plurality of electrical terminals in a sealing relationship. The waterproof grounding connector includes a connector body having opposite first and second ends, and a plurality of parallel longitudinal chambers extending through the connector body. Each chamber is adapted to receive an electrical terminal. A lock means is provided to secure the electrical terminals within the chambers. A hollow, peripheral shroud is located at the second end of the connector body and defines an enclosure having an internal peripheral surface. A flexible grommet with a continuous peripheral edge is adapted to be inserted into the shroud enclosure and creates a continuous peripheral seal between the grommet edge and the internal shroud surface. The grommet includes a plurality of slots which correspond to and align with the chambers. A conductive busbar contains a base portion with a plurality of perpendicularly extending blades which penetrate the grommet slots in a sealing relationship. The busbar blades correspond to and align with the chambers. A mounting tab extends from the base portion of the busbar for mounting the busbar to the grounding surface. A means is provided to secure the grommet and the busbar within the connector body.