car / Trailer lighting sockets

[ytre]

Hello all
Does anyone know of any good sockets? The typical plastic and chrome effect ones dont seem to last any time at all, there a nice tight fit the first few weeks and after that connection is poor and its just a gradual decline from there on in.
Its now part of the mot test that if you have a towbar and light socket fitted it will be tested.

 

[madkayaker]

The 12 pin NATO one takes some beating plus mister MOT man will not have an adaptor. I was under the impression that the 13 pin was on test but wasn't aware that the 7 was included

 

[brightspark]

7 quid delivered on ebay aluminium socket and plug. the conections are brass whatever u buy. so constant use and if it gets dirty they all wear out fast

 

[pedrobedro]

From the vosa guide document.

Are the towing electrics included in the test?

The electrical wiring and socket are not part of the test. If there is an obvious fault the tester will simply advise the vehicle presenter.

 

[rtbcomp]

The test only applies to the new 13 pin connectors. You could however get a fail if wiring is insecure &c.

 

[ytre]

Thanks folks. Wasnt aware the test only was for the 13 pin socket

 

[CompoSimmonite]

I find plastic sockets are far better then alloy which corrode quite quickly.
Brass pins are normal but the screws are often steel ! I sometimes change them for brass screws if I have some of the right thread but always fill the back up with Vaseline before bolting to the car anyway.
Some OE towing electrics have the whole rear of the fitting encased in resin with then located the pins securely. Never tried doing it myself as new plastic sockets from Towsure are cheap to change every few years if necessary.
If you want quality look at Hella items.

Paul H

 

[rtbcomp]

Not keen on the idea of potted-in connectors, I prefer slight movement in the pins to allow proper alignment.

 

[madkayaker]

most potting compounds will allow some flex any way. or use tiger glue