RH71616Y-1.8-21/368047-1 12V 16 Pin Automotive Connector for Female Terminals

Product Overview

The RH71616Y-1.8-21/368047-1 is a high-performance 16-pin automotive connector designed specifically for female terminals, operating at a nominal voltage of 12V. Engineered for wire-to-wire applications, this connector belongs to the Plastic 16 Hole category and offers a robust solution for modern automotive electrical systems. Whether you are working on vehicle wiring harnesses, repair projects, or custom electrical systems, this connector delivers reliability, durability, and consistent performance.

Superior Design and Construction

Manufactured from high-quality Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), the housing provides excellent mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability. The black-colored housing features a rectangular shape with an integrated primary locking mechanism, ensuring secure mating and preventing accidental disconnection even under vibration-heavy conditions commonly found in automotive environments. The connector is designed for cable mount (free-hanging) installation, offering flexibility for various applications without requiring panel or PCB mounting.

Detailed Electrical and Mechanical Specifications

This connector accommodates 1.8mm receptacle contacts and supports mating tab widths of 1.8mm (0.07 inches). With 16 positions arranged in 4 rows, the connector achieves a high contact density while maintaining a compact footprint. The centerline (pitch) is 4.8mm (0.188 inches), and the row-to-row spacing is 5.6mm (0.22 inches). These dimensions ensure sufficient creepage and clearance distances for 12V automotive circuits.

The connector dimensions are as follows: product length of 44.4mm (1.74 inches), width of 27.6mm (1.08 inches), and height of 30.6mm (1.2 inches). The 180-degree cable exit angle allows for straightforward routing in tight engine bays or behind dashboards.

Environmental and Thermal Performance

One of the standout features of this automotive connector is its wide operating temperature range. It reliably functions from -30°C to 105°C (-22°F to 221°F), making it suitable for under-hood applications, passenger compartment wiring, and other demanding environments where temperature fluctuations are extreme. The maximum operating temperature rating of 105°C (221°F) ensures the connector maintains its structural integrity and electrical performance even under prolonged heat exposure.

Sealing and Protection

The RH71616Y-1.8-21 is a sealable connector, meaning it can accept silicone seals or gaskets (sold separately) to prevent moisture, dust, and other contaminants from reaching the terminals. This feature is critical for automotive applications exposed to rain, car washes, road splash, or high humidity. When properly sealed, the connector achieves enhanced environmental protection, reducing the risk of corrosion and intermittent electrical failures.

Application and Circuit Use

This connector is rated for power circuit applications within 12V nominal voltage architectures. It is commonly used in automotive wiring systems such as lighting modules, sensor connections, control unit interfaces, and power distribution boxes. The 16-position configuration allows for multiple signal or low-current power circuits within a single housing, reducing the number of separate connectors required and saving valuable space in wire harnesses.

Compatibility and Termination

The connector terminates to wire and cable, supporting female terminal types (receptacle). It is designed to work with 1.8mm contact sizes, and mating tab width is precisely 1.8mm (0.07 inches). For best results, use terminals and seals recommended by the original manufacturer to ensure proper fit, insertion force, and electrical conductivity.

Ease of Installation

Because the connector uses a cable mount (free-hanging) design, installation is straightforward. No special tools beyond standard terminal crimpers and insertion/extraction tools are required. The integrated primary locking feature holds the connector halves together firmly, while the polarizing slot prevents mis-mating. This user-friendly design reduces assembly time and minimizes training requirements for production line staff.

Quality and Reliability

Each connector is manufactured under strict quality control standards typical of the RH series. The PBT housing material is flame resistance and exhibits low moisture absorption, ensuring dimensional stability over the product’s lifetime. The connector’s robust construction withstands vibration, thermal cycling, and exposure to common automotive fluids such as oil, grease, and mild solvents.

Why Choose the RH71616Y-1.8-21?

High Density: 16 contacts in a compact 4-row arrangement.
Durable Material: PBT housing resists heat, chemicals, and impact.
Wide Temperature Range: Operates from -30°C to 105°C (-22°F to 221°F).
Sealable Design: Can be upgraded for harsh environments.
Polarized Mating: Eliminates connection errors.
Free-Hanging Installation: No panel mounting required.
Power Circuit Capable: Suitable for 12V automotive power distribution.