Technical Anyone know of a good source for multi-prong electric plugs?

Dorman makes some nice weather-pack connectors. I used them when I rewired my parking lights.

https://www.dormanproducts.com/p-18648-85390.aspx

 

Just do a Google search for "Packard Weatherpack" or Delphi Weatherpack"



These are the weatherproof connectors that GM has been using for since the early 80's. They are very robust, weatherproof (if put together correctly), readily available from numerous sources, and are available in numerous configurations. They hold up to quite a bit of abuse and can be taken apart and reconnected tons of times without breaking the positive lock tabs.

The last time I had to pull the front clip off my truck I wired these connectors in. Next time all I'll have to do is disconnect 2 main connectors at the firewall and all the wiring will go with the sheet metal.

 

I am adding another vote for Deutsch connectors. They don't feel cheap in your hand because they aren't cheap. They are really easy to assemble and separate too. I do not have the Deutsch crimper but have used my Blue Point ratchet crimper with the bare terminal jaws to a degree of success, I give the terminal a crimp on one side near the shoulder and then flip it 180 degrees and crimp it again near where the wire enters the barrel. Not remotely the correct way to install them, but I tried clamping the terminal in the vise and giving a piece of scrap wire a yank and they are in there pretty tight, took a serious amount of pull to get them apart.

I would say over a long period of time moisture will eventually get in or the connection is not as optimum as it should be since it is not getting the squeeze from all sides like the proper tool does. I did my method when I had a camper shell put on my modern truck for the 3rd brake light and interior dome lamp, this was back in 2014 and they still work, even with an excited Dutch Shepherd back there slobbering all over the connector...and as well as every other surface.

Go with the Deutsch stuff.

 

The bottom crimp tool looks like a Daniels knock-off (AFM8). Other companies like Tristar had similar basic crimp handles, they all used die sets aka buttons. One crimp handle could do many different crimps, the handles had selectors on them for different wire gauges, etc. The Daniels AF8 used turrets instead of the little buttons.

https://dmctools.com/products/crimp-tools/machined-contacts

 

Deutsch DT connectors are great, but they definitely aren't traditional.

TE has a zillion families of connectors. Something like the FASTON series would better fit a 1950s/60s technology vibe.

 

That iCrimp connector and others of that type are junk. The JReady or similar copies of the official Deutsch crimper are substantially better.

 

I'm not sure if RS operate in the US, but they are a great source of electrical components here in the UK
https://uk.rs-online.com/web/c/connectors/automotive-electrical-connectors/

 

Car Connectors Outlet & Pigtails - Connector Outlet
Late to the party don't know if this has been posted.

 

I recommend the Deutsch connectors as well. Just make sure to run the appropriate plug for the gauge wire. I bought one of the JReady kits on Amazon that came with the tool and everything else. But when it came time to wire the electric fan, had to get a plug that could handle the amperage.

Maven Performance has a YouTube channel that has a really good video on making the connections and how to use the tool. They deal more with drag and drive cars, but the concept is the same.

 

Seems to me, one of my old cars had a big ass connector with multiple pins. Like the amount you need... 10 or so. Might have been one of my early 50s Buicks. It's a fuzzy memory. Not something I'd normally pay a lot of attention to. Might have only noticed it because I was disassembling a parts car. Anyway, if I remember correctly at all, 1/2 was secured in the firewall. I'd say it was about 3" sq. x 1.5".

Since it was part of a 6 volt electrical system, it would be plenty robust enough for 12 volts.
And it's nice old stuff.

Sorry I can't remember for sure which car it was on. Shouldn't be too hard to find.