How to Wire a MELTRIC DSN20 Amp Receptacle

In this tutorial, we’ll demonstrate how to assemble a DSN20 receptacle mounted to a cord end, using an NPT cord grip and wire mesh strain relief.

First, we will gather the needed tools. You’ll need a blade to strip the cable, offsett scissors, wire strippers, ruler or tape measure, and a marker. You’ll also need two wrenches sized to fit your cord grip, a Philips-head screwdriver, and torque-limiting screwdriver with a one-eighth-inch (3mm) precision tip.

We will begin by assembling the cord grip to the handle. Standard MELTRIC handles come with an NPT opening for cable entry. You’ll see that the cord grip uses PTFE tape to help prevent thread binding and ensure a tight seal. Hand-tighten the cord grip into the handle, then give one to two additional turns with a wrench. Aim for at least three and a half threads of engagement - up to six if possible.

Next, we’ll strip the cable and begin assembling the device. Start by inserting the cable into the open end of the handle until it stops at the cord grip entry. Mark the cable at the opening. Carefully cut the jacket, but DO NOT remove the jacket from the end. Turn the handle around and feed the cable back through the wire mesh and the cord grip.

Tip: It may be easier to slide the mesh and the bushing onto the cable separately. Slide the cord grip assembly up the cable to allow a clear working section of the conductors.

 Tip: If you’re using any accessories – such as draw plates – slide them onto the cable and their associated gaskets. These should go on after the handle and before wire termination.

Once all parts are in place, remove the pre-cut jacket and trim any cable filler that remains. For this step, please refer to the quick start-guide included in your packaging. For the DSN20 the guide directs us to strip each conductor to one half inch. Carefully remove the insulation to avoid crowning or cutting the conductor. Twist the strands to form a tight bundle, this helps to easily insert the conductor into the terminal and allow for even pressure.

Prepare the terminals by loosening the lugs using a flathead screwdriver. Be careful to avoid backing the screws out fully.

Tip: Before terminating, ensure the gasket is properly installed on the back of the receptacle. Insert the conductor into the terminal and lightly tighten the screw to hold the conductor in place.

After all conductors are inserted, use your torque limiting screwdriver set to the recommended torque value. In this case, the DSN20 requires 8.9 to 10.6 inch-pounds (1.0-1.2N-m). Once initially tightened, firmly wiggle the conductors to settle any strands and tighten to the torque value again.

With the wires terminated, it is now time to fasten the receptacle to the handle. Use a Philips-head screwdriver to attach the handle using the provided screws. Start by tightening all four screws just enough to engage the gasket. Then, tighten the screws in a crisscross pattern - like tightening car tire lugs. Tighten until the gasket begins to compress but stop before it bulges or squeezes out at the corners.

With the receptacle fastened to the handle, it is now time to finish assembling the cord grip and mesh. If the cord grip components were installed separately, now slide the bushing into place, ensuring it’s aligned in the cord grip. Then slide the dome nut and mesh into position and begin threading it onto the cord grip body. Hand-tighten the dome nut.

 Then use two wrenches or pliers to hold the cord grip steady while tightening the dome nut around the cable. This prevents twisting the NTP threads or rotating the cable inside the handle, which can strain your conductor connections.

With the assembly complete, check all joints for a proper seal. Push and pull gently on the cable to confirm it’s securely held in place. Flex the receptacle and handle to verify that the gasket remains sealed, and no gaps appear. Your DSN20 assembly is now complete. Always double-check your connections before use.