Connector torque and weatherproofing: what is the right way?

Torque: use the connector manufacturer’s data sheet and a calibrated torque wrench or the tool they specify. As a typical reference, 7/16 DIN is about 25 N.m (roughly 18 lbf.ft) and 4.3-10 is designed to be hand tightened, and if a torque wrench is called for it is about 5 N.m. Do not over-tighten small connectors and do not use pliers on coupling nuts. Weatherproofing: 1. Mate and torque the connector with everything clean and dry. 2. Use the kit the project specifies. A cold-shrink tube must be slid onto the cable BEFORE mating. 3. If you tape: butyl or mastic tape first, pressing it into the gaps; then UV-rated vinyl tape over it, half-overlapped, wrapped from the bottom up so water sheds. 4. Leave a drip loop in the jumper below the connector. 5. Photograph before and after; most closeout packages need it. — CrewRating Team. General guidance, not a substitute for your company safety program, manufacturer instructions or the carrier’s scope of work. If this conflicts with them, follow them and tell us so we can fix it.