Amplifier Power Cord Replacement

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around replacing a severed power cord for an amplifier, specifically focusing on the type of connection used and potential replacement options. Participants explore various connector types, safety considerations, and alternative solutions for connecting the amplifier to a power source.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant identifies the connection type as push-on spade connectors and suggests obtaining crimp versions from automotive stores.
  • Another participant proposes using an inline IEC socket connected to the amplifier's wires, allowing the use of a standard IEC power cable.
  • Concerns are raised about the reliability of IEC connectors, with one participant arguing that they are not a locking fit and may not be suitable for this application.
  • Another participant counters that IEC connectors are commonly used in computers and are reliable, questioning the need for a locking mechanism.
  • A participant emphasizes the risks associated with loose connections, citing potential fire hazards from arcing if the plug becomes loose in the socket.
  • One participant shares a link to a source for NEMA locking power cords, suggesting they may be a viable option for the replacement.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the suitability of IEC connectors versus locking connectors, with no consensus reached on the best approach for the amplifier's power cord replacement.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various connector types and their implications for safety and reliability, but the discussion does not resolve the technical specifications or safety standards applicable to the amplifier's power connection.

DavidSnider
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I severed the power cord to an amplifier of mine and I am trying to replace it. My amplifier seems to have a pretty standard 3-prong power cord. Printed on it is:

E88265-C SVT 75 degree celsius 18AWGX3C VW-1 CSA TYPE LL81924

I googled some of these part numbers but none of them seem to have the same kind of connection that my amplifier does. Picture attached.

Is there a specific name for this kind of connection?
 

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You have push on spade connectors. You have the female part attached to the wire. The male part is a lug or tang on the switch.

Versions that crimp on to the cable with pliers can be obtained from automotive stores, get the correct size.
 
Studiot said:
You have push on spade connectors. You have the female part attached to the wire. The male part is a lug or tang on the switch.

Versions that crimp on to the cable with pliers can be obtained from automotive stores, get the correct size.
Just to give an example of what you can get at automotive stores:
nylon_full_double_crimp_pushon_big.jpg


http://www.wiringproducts.com/contents/en-us/d49.html"

I would use a cheap crimp tool instead of pliers.
990100_big.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
You could connect an inline IEC socket to the 3 wires coming from the amplifier (if there is enough wire) and then use a standard IEC power cable to connect to the mains.

IECRewireablePlug.jpg


This would save you having to fit spade connectors.
 
vk6kro said:
You could connect an inline IEC socket to the 3 wires coming from the amplifier (if there is enough wire) and then use a standard IEC power cable to connect to the mains.

IECRewireablePlug.jpg


This would save you having to fit spade connectors.

I like this idea! Thanks. This forum is so handy some times.
 
If you go for the plug and socket solution the IEC pair is definitely not recommended as it is not a locking fit.

If you go this route there are several locking connector pairs to choose from.
 
Studiot said:
If you go for the plug and socket solution the IEC pair is definitely not recommended as it is not a locking fit.

If you go this route there are several locking connector pairs to choose from.

Why would it need to lock? This is just an amplifier, not a power tool.

Every computer uses these connectors and I've never seen one come apart. They make a firm connection and they are very reliable.
 
Any push-in / pull-out arrangement is at risk of displacement by any jerk in the cable. This is one reason why the cable in a BS plug is at right angles to the entry line of the conecting pins. The cable in IEC plugs is inline with the terminals.

David (no offence meant) has already demonstrated that cables are at some risk in his environment and this connection is meant to be semi-permanent, not just a temporary one off.

If the plug becomes loose in the socket, the connection will still apparently function correctly but arcing will occur which could eventually lead to a fire. I have seen this happen.

Just on this monrning's news there was a report of someone who has a laptop in bed , obstructing the fan, and set fire to his flat.
There are some 50,000 electrically caused fires in the UK alone per year - A frightening number.
 
http://customavrack.com/Category/145-nema-twist-locking-power-cords-15a-20a-30a-in-stock-ships-within-24-hours.aspx" will terminate NEMA locking power cords or different custom IEC configurations at just about any length and ship it within a day or two
 
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