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Permalink Reply by Jim and Amelia Isaacs 12 hours ago

I have a background in aircraft manufacturing. I’ve not seen nor used heat shrink connectors in commercial or military aircraft design or manufacturing, only aircraft grade mechanically secured connectors. That said, I confess I have used one or two on my 701, but as an exception. I’ve had no issues with the few I used thus far (five years, 200 hours in service). Otherwise it’s full length runs from power buss bar to circuit breakers then on to the device requiring power. Ground buss only (no local airframe grounds) using mechanical force connections and full length runs same as in power runs. Have you downloaded a copy of The Aeroelectric Connection by Bob Nickolas? Leave a bit of extra length (service loop) wherever and whenever possible because it’s not if, but when, you will need to troubleshoot or relocate something. Dress and route your harness runs, mark each wire whenever possible, and sketch out your wiring diagram as you go. What engine? Is there an install manual for its electrical requirements? The ignition system requirements must be clearly understood. For example, if shielded wires are to be used from Ignition device to switch, must the shield be terminated at both ends? Is a shielded twisted pair OK or must the two wires be separated and individually shielded? Seek the experience of others who have built the same aircraft using the same engine.

And have fun!

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