Abstract: A separable electrical connector assembly includes mating rod connector and bore switch modules. The bore switch module includes a grasping bore contact member for electrically engaging with a rod contact member which is included in the rod connector module. The rod contact member includes an arc follower at its engaging end. The assembly includes means for providing an operator, during a make operation, with a modified dwell position immediately following which electrical engagement of the rod and bore contact members is made. At the modified dwell position, further insertion of the rod contact member into the switch module is met by a noticeable resistance. At the modified dwell position, a predetermined distance separates the arc follower and the grasping bore contact member. In one embodiment, the bore switch module includes two axially spaced annular grooves respectively containing a gas sealing ring and a stop ring. The rod contact member includes two spaced annular recesses.