RH71616Y-1.8-11/368050-1 12 V, 16 Position, Automotive Connector for Female Terminals, Wire-to-Wire, 5.6 mm

Product Overview

The RH71616Y-1.8-11/368050-1 is a robust 16-position automotive connector designed specifically for male terminals (tab-type contacts). Operating at a nominal voltage of 12V, this wire-to-wire connector falls under the Plastic 16 Hole category and offers a reliable, high-density interconnect solution for a wide range of automotive electrical systems. Whether you are manufacturing wiring harnesses, repairing vehicle electrical circuits, or developing custom automotive electronics, this connector delivers consistent mechanical and electrical performance in demanding environments.

Design and Construction Quality

Manufactured from high-quality Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT), the connector housing exhibits excellent mechanical strength, dimensional stability, and resistance to automotive fluids such as oil, grease, and fuel. The black-colored rectangular housing is both lightweight and durable, making it suitable for continuous use in engine compartments, chassis wiring, and interior harness assemblies. As a cable-mounted (free-hanging) connector, it does not require panel or PCB mounting, offering maximum flexibility during installation and system integration.

The connector features a 180-degree cable exit angle, which simplifies routing in tight spaces such as behind dashboards, under seats, or along vehicle frame rails. This straight exit design reduces bending stress on wires and helps maintain a neat, organized harness layout.

Detailed Configuration and Contact Specifications

This connector accommodates 1.8mm male terminals (tabs) with a mating tab width of 1.8mm (0.071 inches). The 16 positions are arranged in 4 rows, achieving a high contact density while maintaining practical handling characteristics. The centerline (pitch) is 5.6mm (0.22 inches), and the row-to-row spacing is 4.8mm (0.18 inches). These dimensions provide adequate creepage and clearance distances for 12V power and signal circuits, reducing the risk of short circuits or arcing.

Key dimensional specifications include:

Product Length: 39.6 mm (1.55 inches)
Product Width: 36.5 mm (1.44 inches)
Connector Height: 26.7 mm (1.05 inches)
These compact dimensions allow the connector to fit into space-constrained automotive environments while still offering 16 independent circuits.

Electrical and Circuit Application

Rated for power circuit applications within 12V nominal voltage architectures, this connector is suitable for distributing low-to-medium current loads. Common applications include lighting systems (headlamps, tail lamps, interior lights), sensor connections (ABS, temperature, pressure), control module interfaces, and power distribution junctions. The pure power-focus design ensures minimal voltage drop and reliable current carrying capacity when used with appropriately gauged wires and mating terminals.

Thermal and Environmental Performance

The RH71616Y-1.8-11 operates reliably across a wide temperature range from -30°C to 105°C (-22°F to 221°F), with a maximum operating temperature of 105°C (221°F). This makes the connector suitable for under-hood applications where ambient temperatures can soar, as well as for passenger compartment and trunk area wiring where temperatures are more moderate. The PBT housing maintains its structural integrity across this entire range, resisting deformation, embrittlement, or softening.

Sealing and Environmental Protection

It is important to note that this particular variant is non-sealable. The connector does not support silicone seals or gaskets, meaning it is best suited for dry or protected environments where direct exposure to water, high-pressure spray, or dust is minimal. Typical suitable locations include interior cabin wiring, behind door panels, under dashboards, and within sealed electrical junction boxes. For applications requiring water or dust ingress protection, please consider other sealable variants from the same series.

Mechanical Attachment and Installation

As a cable mount (free-hanging) connector, installation requires only standard terminal crimping tools and an insertion/extraction tool for the male terminals. The connector does not include strain relief, so external wire management (such as cable ties or harness tape) is recommended for applications subject to vibration or wire tugging. The absence of TPA and CPA also means faster assembly times, as there are no additional locking devices to engage.

The connector is serviceable? No – this means the connector is not designed for repeated disassembly and terminal replacement. Once assembled, it should be considered a permanent connection. This design choice enhances reliability by reducing the risk of loose terminals caused by multiple insertion/removal cycles.

Compatibility

This housing is designed to mate with a corresponding female connector housing (sold separately) that contains receptacle contacts. The mating interface accepts 1.8mm male tabs, and the 5.6mm pitch ensures proper terminal spacing for reliable electrical isolation. For optimal performance, use terminals and tools recommended by Reelhon or qualified manufacturers.

Why Choose the RH71616Y-1.8-11/368050-1?

High Circuit Density: 16 positions in a compact 4-row, 5.6mm pitch layout.
Durable PBT Housing: Heat-resistant, chemical-resistant, and dimensionally stable.
Wide Operating Temperature: -30°C to 105°C (-22°F to 221°F) for versatile use.
Keyed Mating Alignment: Prevents incorrect connection.
Free-Hanging Design: Easy installation without panel mounting.
Power Circuit Rated: Suitable for 12V automotive power and signal applications.
Cost-Effective: No seals, TPA, or CPA reduces per-unit cost.
Terminal Primary Lock: Secure retention without complex housing features.