M4-38RK Ring Terminal Connector Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The M4-38RK is a non-insulated ring terminal connector manufactured by 3M under the Scotchlok™ series. This component is designed for 4 AWG wire termination with a 3/8 inch stud connection, utilizing crimp termination technology. The part is currently active in production with 938 pieces available in inventory. Ring terminal connectors of this specification are essential in electrical assemblies where secure, permanent wire-to-stud connections are required. Substitute parts may be necessary due to supply constraints, lead time requirements, or specific application compatibility needs.

Substiute Parts

M4-38RK

3MIn Stock: 1013M4-38RK Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

P4-38R-T

Panduit CorpIn Stock: 19184P4-38R-T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the M4-38RK is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Wire Gauge: Must be 4 AWG
• Terminal Type: Must be Circular
• Stud/Tab Size: Must be 3/8 Stud
• Termination Method: Must be Crimp
• Insulation Type: Must be Non-Insulated
• Mounting Configuration: Must be Free Hanging (In-Line)

The P4-38R-T manufactured by Panduit Corp satisfies all mandatory substitution criteria. Both parts share identical wire gauge, terminal geometry, stud size, termination technology, and mounting configuration. Dimensional variations in thickness and overall length fall within acceptable tolerances for this connector class and do not affect functional compatibility in standard applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Both the M4-38RK and P4-38R-T are active production components with full regulatory compliance. The M4-38RK carries RoHS Compliant certification, while the P4-38R-T meets ROHS3 Compliant standards. Both parts are REACH Unaffected and classified under identical ECCN and HTSUS codes, confirming equivalent regulatory standing.

Selection between these parts should be based on availability, lead time, and supply chain requirements. The P4-38R-T offers higher inventory availability (19,111 pieces) compared to the M4-38RK (938 pieces), making it suitable for applications with extended production runs or immediate delivery requirements. The dimensional differences—specifically the reduced thickness (0.050" vs. 0.075") and increased overall length (1.460" vs. 1.340")—are within acceptable mechanical tolerances for standard ring terminal applications and do not compromise functional performance in equivalent electrical circuits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the P4-38R-T replace the M4-38RK in all applications?

A: Yes. Both connectors meet identical specifications for wire gauge (4 AWG), stud size (3/8 inch), terminal type (circular), termination method (crimp), and mounting configuration (free hanging in-line). The dimensional variations fall within acceptable mechanical tolerances for this connector class.

Q: What are the key differences between these two parts?

A: The primary differences are manufacturer (3M vs. Panduit), series designation (Scotchlok™ vs. Pan-Term®), thickness (0.075" vs. 0.050"), and overall length (1.340" vs. 1.460"). Both parts feature brazed seams and identical outer width dimensions. These variations do not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility.

Q: Are there compliance or certification differences?

A: Both parts are RoHS compliant and REACH Unaffected. The M4-38RK carries RoHS Compliant certification, while the P4-38R-T meets the more recent ROHS3 Compliant standard. Both share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8536.90.4000) classifications.

Q: Which part should be selected for new designs?

A: Selection should be based on supply availability and lead time requirements. The P4-38R-T has significantly higher inventory (19,111 pieces) and may offer better availability for production schedules. Both parts are active and suitable for new applications.

Q: Are there any wire gauge or stud size variations available?

A: The specifications provided cover only the 4 AWG wire gauge with 3/8 inch stud configuration. Other wire gauges or stud sizes would require separate part number evaluation and are not included in this substitution analysis.