Abstract: A packaging system is disclosed for storing and handling electrical connectors and the like. The system employs a plurality of elongated connector-containing tubes. Each tube has an aperture therethrough near each opposite end thereof. The apertures are spaced longitudinally of the respective tubes so that a pair of assembly rods can be passed through the aligned apertures of a plurality of generally parallel juxtaposed tubes. The assembly rods hold the tubes in a generally stacked array and also act as stop rods to close-off the ends of the tubes. At least one aperture in each tube is enlarged relative to the rod passing therethrough for accommodating any variances in the spacing between the apertures in any particular tubes.

Abstract: A portable hand tool is provided for applying at least a two-part electrical connector having insulation displacement conductive elements to an insulated electrical cable. The tool includes a manually grippable frame, with a loading die on the frame for receiving and holding the two-part electrical connector in spaced relationship. A compression die is movable relative to the loading die into pressure engagement with the electrical connector. A shaft is threaded through the frame and is connected to the compression die to effect movement of the compression die relative to the loading die in response to rotation of the shaft. A manually grippable torque applying handle projects outwardly of the shaft for rotating the shaft. A second manually grippable handle is retractably mounted on the frame for projecting outwardly therefrom and for retraction to an inoperative position alongside the frame.

Abstract: A system for manufacturing wire harness assemblies is provided. Each wire harness includes a shielded cable having a plurality of insulated conductors therein, with each conductor being terminated at its respective opposed ends and with the terminated ends being mounted in connector housings. The system includes a plurality of pallets that are movable along a conveyor to work stations at which various assembly steps are carried out. A first station is provided for mounting the cables to the pallet, such that the wires at the opposed ends are mounted in fixtures. A second station may selectively deposit drop wires into fixtures on the pallets. A third station trims and strips the ends of the wires and aligns the drop wires with the cable wires. A fourth station sequentially crimps terminals to the ends of the wires, with the pallet being indexable between successive crimps.