Technical information

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21
Technician Guidelines for Antilock Braking Systems
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bodies. These terminations are very common on commercial
vehicles and come in a variety of configurations. Multiple
connections in one connector body are typical. Also, various
types of proprietary terminations on the same vehicle are
common. When repairing or replacing these terminations,
special techniques are needed. These techniques include tools,
special assembly methods and, many times, special training.
When servicing special connectors, use of OEM
recommended tools is critical to making a good termination.
Repair or replacement of these special terminations should not
be attempted without the specific tools recommended.
Manufacturers’ service manuals and bulletins typically detail the
techniques to be used for proper repair.
Butt Splices—A butt splice is any splice where wires are joined
together “end-to-end.” In this case, the wires may be either
twisted together and soldered, or crimped together using a
commercially available terminal. Butt splices should always be
covered with insulation and heat shrink tubing which has a
meltable inner liner or another suitable protective insulation.
The use of pressure sensitive tape is not recommended as the
tape will likely deteriorate with time.
Conductor Terminations—Terminations of conductors are
made to attach the conductor to another conductor or to a
device on the vehicle. These terminations must be carefully
made in order to provide acceptable serviceability. Attaching a
wire to another wire (not using a butt splice) is an example of a
conductor termination.
Terminations Without Terminals—Occasionally a wire is
terminated without a terminal to facilitate the attachment of the
wire to an accessory. If this situation is unavoidable, the wire
should be “tinned” to prevent fraying and breakage at the point
of connection. Using a heat shrink process at the end of the
wire is also acceptable.
b. Grounding Recommendations
Grounding problems occur in a variety of ways (such as
corrosion or inadequate current-carrying capacity). As a result,
grounding terminations should be coated with a suitable
material to prevent corrosion as a result of exposure to salt
spray or other corrosive environments.
Technician Tip—
Whenever an additional
grounding point is to be
established on the
vehicle, consult the
vehicle manufacturer to
ensure that the planned
alteration does not
result in an inadequate
ground path for other
components on the
vehicle.