Trouble Connecting J1772 plug to vehicle

[geoheath]

On several occasions I have encountered difficulty connecting EVSE J1772 plug to the car socket. The problem in every case was a rubber sealing ring inside the plug was out of position. If you can't fully seat the plug, take look inside at that ring. If dislodged, you can prod it back into position. There is no high voltage on the plug until the car commands the EVSE to turn ON.

 

[alohart]

Which brand and model EVSE?

The J1772 plug on our JuiceBox Classic is a tight fit on our i3's charging port. I occasionally spray silicone lubricant on the plug's plastic parts that mate to the charging port trying not to spray any on the electrical contacts. This seems to help a bit for a while, but it eventually becomes somewhat difficult to unplug again. I'm pretty certain that this sealing ring isn't to blame, but I'll check. Thanks!

 

[jadnashuanh]

FWIW, WD40 on the electrical contacts won't hurt unless it ends up trapping grit that may blow in, but shouldn't be an issue if you always replace the cap.

If the locking pin is sticking, you may not be able to insert (or remove) the plug...double check that if you have trouble attaching, as well. The only voltage on the pins is a 12vdc signal, and that is a low-current one, so as said, until the car signals the EVSE to turn on, there's nothing there. The same is true on the European plug, but their safety agency required the plug to have shutters on the pins, so it was even 'safer'. Personally, I think that is a waste and adds to the cost of the plug, but it's what it is.