Roy Lewallen wrote:
For years I've had a relay box in the back yard to remotely switch among
antennas. The plastic freezer boxes I used deteriorate in the sun and
have to be replaced from time to time. Last time I was at the surplus
store I picked up an ammo box which will be the new home for the relays.
I plan on using N connectors for the RF due to their weatherproof
construction. The problem is a connector for the relay control cable. I
want a weatherproof bulkhead connector with at least 8 or 9 conductors,
and I'd like the cable part to be weatherproof also. I don't want to use
an in-line connector because of the problems of weatherproofing and
strain relieving wires going through the box wall.

There are a bunch of old military connectors that would be fine, but I
need a set of complete ones, with back shell for the cable end, etc.
I've been keeping an eye on eBay, but so far haven't spotted anything
quite right.

Does anyone know a source for a suitable connector set?

I'd take a look at the "circular plastic connectors" sold by Digi-Key.
(among others)

They're not inherently weatherproof but some silicon sealant will make
them that way.

That's what's used on the pan/tilt heads that aim the transmit antennas
on TV microwave remote trucks - certainly at least as difficult an
application as what you're doing. The connectors far outlast the drive
gears!
--
Doug Smith W9WI
Pleasant View (Nashville), TN EM66
http://www.w9wi.com