How to Assemble MC4 Connectors for Solar

Join Kelly as she demonstrates the process of installing MC4 connectors. Whether you're adjusting PV cables or connecting a portable solar generator to a temporary array, this guide is your go-to resource for DIY solar installation
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0:00 Intro
0:40 Understanding the anatomy of MC4 connectors
1:37 Solar panel overview
2:27 Tools needed
5:21 Preparing the connector
5:41 Stripping the wire
6:47 Crimping the wire
7:27 Installing the wire
8:18 Repeating for negative cable

[@MrSeaCheese]

Thanks, you resolved the confusion I had after watching another youtuber in less than 1 minute.

[@bobmonztr]

1st time I did it was weird, mmm female contact into male connect, male contact into female connector. I had 1 contact was damaged my advice order 2 extra so you don't have to wait 6 days to finish the install.

[@paultarp9150]

Very nice. Thanks for showing how these go together.

[@SignatureSolar]

You are so welcome!

[@BlackOmega314]

Great videos, keep them coming!

[@SignatureSolar]

Thanks, will do!

[@jasonbroom7147]

Some people are great teachers, whether by nature or through years of experience. You are one such person. Even though I already knew how to make my own MC4 cables, it was worth watching your demonstration and instruction on the topic. I don't know what Signature Solar is paying you, but it isn't enough.

[@SignatureSolar]

Wow, thank you for your feedback!

[@Electronzap]

Good info.

[@SignatureSolar]

Glad it was helpful!

[@skipdenny2192]

8 awg and larger use non-crimp connectors. Best way to attach wire? Do I need to solder?

[@SignatureSolar]

This depends on which line you're referring to - for PV wire its just a clamp terminal and the bare copper wires do not require soldering 99% of the time.

[@zmarko]

You mention keeping the connectors all the same in the array, does that mean we should not use the mc4 connectors if they came already on the panels? Or would the ones that come with the panels be ok?

[@SignatureSolar]

The connectors that come pre-installed on the panels are likely tested for quality. So, it's a good idea to stick with good quality connectors and keep them consistent when you're replacing or adding new ones.

[@mary74724]

👏👏👏👍👍👍💛💛💛

[@lliaolsen728]

I need to make a conversion cable to connect MC4 to DC8020

[@SignatureSolar]

You can purchase this here: www.amazon.com/ENZPOWER-Suitcase-Industrial-Connector-ConnectorCable/dp/B08185CWQ1/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-QS6g-R5tRFqwJRB_RHs8H_NjQ1XqEV6xua5Y3LCwToOk3nGoL6GbCbf2yYeiSrgu8Z_LLzr2nxVlkLuCJBB2yc3exkrbt03SYYx5Vdbw2k2S7e2qNSBoDf2DzeRbs53dnFoM_t4MsOb-r_b-NIbgefjmOuKOoW-ipWWVneHPmkoOTEJGMb6ZheDOuOvtw9SgUD4X4sYxCXOHTHtzzXZ8-sf38BwivewJd9vRXUjZz8.WJJTtvQwAvhsd696fmW7HpQSNn9bgG1WUQ6VcG9wEDU&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=684051182618&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9027015&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=18043632035408635998&hvtargid=kwd-2264183322649&hydadcr=1334_13654974&keywords=dc8020+to+mc4&qid=1721225564&sr=8-1

[@lliaolsen728]

@@SignatureSolar I saw that but wasn't sure if I'd get power loss or potential fire hazard from the 14AWG part of the cable, vs making my own with 10AWG or 12AWG. It would need to handle 400 watts.

[@benjaminsuddeth6448]

How to disassemble?

[@SignatureSolar]

While the MC4 connectors can be disassembled, the metal terminal ends within the plastic housing are not designed for disassembly. If there's an issue with these terminal ends, the entire connector usually needs to be cut off and replaced.

[@DanRibar]

male=positive; female=negative...... got it. thanks. :)

[@007nige]

The beginning of this video messed me up. The male connector and female terminal should be paired, and the female connector and the male terminal should be paired. I think this video or at least this part of the video should be redone so that other people don't get flummoxed as I did.🤔Thank you! 🤗

[@SignatureSolar]

Thank you so much for your feedback @007nige!

[@Espiritiv]

A little flub @1:05... "Female terminal end.... to female connector"

[@SignatureSolar]

Haha good eye! Thank you!

[@Espiritiv]

I got super confused for about 30 seconds