OPEN BARREL SPLICE

Open Barrel Splice Connector — 22–18 AWG Motorsport Wire Joining Terminal

The 62759-1 is an open barrel crimp splice connector for 22–18 AWG (0.3–0.8 mm² mm²) wire, used in motorsport and automotive harness construction for joining two wire ends mid-harness. Open barrel splices are the professional crimp terminal standard for visible-barrel crimping — the open U-shaped barrel allows the crimp quality to be visually inspected after crimping without cutting the splice apart, unlike closed barrel splices where the crimp joint is hidden inside the barrel. This splice is suited to signal wires, sensor leads, ECU control circuit joints, and low-current connection points in motorsport harnesses.

Open Barrel vs Closed Barrel Splices — Technical Distinction

An open barrel (or flag) splice has a U-shaped or open-seam barrel that can be inspected visually after crimping. The crimp deformation of the conductor wire is visible from the side, allowing the crimp quality — correct conductor fill, absence of wire strands outside the barrel, correct barrel closure — to be verified without destructive inspection. Closed barrel (parallel) splices enclose the conductor completely, requiring either an inspection window or cross-section examination to verify crimp quality. In aerospace and high-specification motorsport harness work, open barrel splices are preferred at any joint where crimp quality verification is required as part of harness inspection and quality assurance.

22–18 AWG Gauge — Application Range

The 62759-1 is rated for 22–18 AWG (0.3–0.8 mm² mm²) wire. This gauge range suits signal wires, sensor leads, ECU control circuit joints, and low-current connection points in motorsport harnesses. Correct gauge selection is critical: an undersized barrel crimped onto a heavier conductor will not deform correctly, leaving a loose joint; an oversized barrel crimped onto lighter wire produces an over-deformed joint with potential insulation damage. Always select the splice size that matches the wire gauge being joined.

Crimping Open Barrel Splices

Open barrel splices require a ratchet crimp tool with the appropriate open-barrel die for the terminal gauge. The die type (F, Y, or equivalent) must match the terminal profile. Using pliers or an incorrect die produces an inconsistent crimp that may appear acceptable visually but fail under vibration or thermal cycling. After crimping, visually inspect the crimp for correct conductor compression, full barrel closure, and absence of protruding wire strands before completing the harness assembly.

Available from Arctic Performance Parts

Arctic Performance Parts stocks open barrel splice connectors across key wire gauge ranges to support professional motorsport harness fabrication and repair across Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Lead time 1–2 weeks for quantities beyond current stock.