MC4 disconnecting tool?

wxh3 · June 2008

Is there a tool that pro installers use for disconnecting MC4 connectors? I am having trouble doing it (pushing tabs down and pulling apart) using my fingers and needle nose pliers. Maybe I am just uncoordinated. I emailed the seller this question and he said no, you "just unplug them." Sorry for the stupid question.

System2 · July 2008

Re: MC4 disconnecting tool?

I checked the NAWS store first but did not see anything.
http://store.solar-electric.com/incaforsoelp.html

So I checked Affordable Solar and saw a tool for $14.00.
http://www.affordable-solar.com/mc4-assembly-tool-PV-MS.htm

This looks like it has the thing to press in the tabs, though I have not used it. I did try plugging and unplugging an MC4 here. I was able to push in the tabs with thumb and forefinger but it is hard and there is no tactile feel that tells me when I have pushed them enough. What surprised me is how hard I needed to pull the cable apart while pushing the tabs. There is an o-ring seal that provides much stiction.

For a catalog of MC cable stuff see:
http://www.multi-contact-usa.com/pdf/literature/solarline-2.pdf
or
http://www.multi-contact-usa.com/pdf/catalogs

Pull!
- Rob

wxh3 · July 2008

Re: MC4 disconnecting tool?

Thanks...will try harder and hopefully not break them. One of mine will require a tool as the tabs are covered by a sliding cover with holes in the side so can't use fingers.. Maybe normal needle nose pliers will work.

wxh3 · July 2008

Re: MC4 disconnecting tool?

Sage wrote: »

So I checked Affordable Solar and saw a tool for $14.00.
http://www.affordable-solar.com/mc4-assembly-tool-PV-MS.htm

This looks like it has the thing to press in the tabs, though I have not used it.
...

For a catalog of MC cable stuff see:
http://www.multi-contact-usa.com/pdf/literature/solarline-2.pdf

I looked at your pdf link and see the "Safety lock clip PV-SSH4" on page 27. It says an MC4 connection with this "can only be unlocked with the tool PV-MS." One of my two connections has this clip. I think the tool might be useful even for connections without the clip. Looks like I will have to get the tool...

wxh3 · July 2008

Re: MC4 disconnecting tool?

Got my tool. Disconnected both of my cables in a few seconds. BTW, naws site now has the tools too:

http://store.solar-electric.com/ditoformc4co.html

Windsun · July 2008

Re: MC4 disconnecting tool?

The manufacturer at first tried to say that those tools were meant only for "qualified installers", and did not really want us to sell them.

After I spent some time explaining the simple fact that many of these new panels are used in off-grid, marine, and RV's they decided that yeah, it was probably a good idea to sell them.

MC4 disconnecting tool?

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