M6-516RK Ring Terminal Connector 6 AWG #5/16 Crimp Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The M6-516RK is a non-insulated ring terminal connector manufactured by 3M under the Scotchlok™ series. This circular terminal is designed for 6 AWG wire with a 5/16 stud connection and crimp termination. The part is actively produced and RoHS compliant, making it suitable for applications requiring reliable electrical connections in industrial and commercial environments. Equivalent and substitute parts are identified when component availability is limited, supply chain disruptions occur, or design flexibility permits alternative manufacturers meeting identical electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

M6-516RK

3MIn Stock: 747M6-516RK Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

2-33466-3

TE Connectivity AMP ConnectorsIn Stock: 28582-33466-3 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

P6-56R-T

Panduit CorpIn Stock: 1776P6-56R-T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the M6-516RK is determined by strict adherence to the following parameters:

Critical Parameters (Must Match Exactly):

• Terminal Type: Circular
• Wire Gauge: 6 AWG
• Stud/Tab Size: 5/16 Stud
• Termination Method: Crimp
• Insulation: Non-Insulated
• Mounting Type: Free Hanging (In-Line)

Allowable Variation Parameters:

• Thickness: ±0.012" tolerance
• Width - Outer Edges: ±0.010" tolerance
• Length - Overall: ±0.110" tolerance
• Features: Brazed Seam (serrated termination is allowable addition)
• Contact Material and Finish: Copper with Tin finish acceptable
• RoHS Status: ROHS3 Compliant acceptable for ROHS3 Compliant applications

The identified substitute parts 2-33466-3 (TE Connectivity) and P6-56R-T (Panduit) meet all critical parameters and fall within allowable mechanical tolerances.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All three parts—M6-516RK, 2-33466-3, and P6-56R-T—are actively produced and meet RoHS compliance requirements. Selection between these parts should be based on:

Availability and Lead Time: 2-33466-3 (TE Connectivity) offers the highest inventory level at 2,778 pieces, followed by P6-56R-T (Panduit) at 1,692 pieces, and M6-516RK (3M) at 675 pieces.

Packaging Format: M6-516RK and P6-56R-T are supplied in Bulk packaging, while 2-33466-3 is supplied in Cut Tape (CT) format. Packaging selection depends on assembly process requirements.

Mechanical Tolerance Considerations: All three parts remain within acceptable dimensional tolerances for 6 AWG #5/16 crimp ring terminals. The P6-56R-T exhibits the greatest overall length at 1.330 inches, while the M6-516RK is the shortest at 1.220 inches. These variations are within standard engineering tolerances for this terminal category.

Compliance Status: All parts maintain EAR99 export classification and 8536.90.4000 HTSUS coding, ensuring consistent regulatory treatment across supply chain alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 2-33466-3 be used as a direct replacement for M6-516RK?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical terminal type, wire gauge, stud size, termination method, and insulation specifications. The 2-33466-3 includes serrated termination as an additional feature, which does not prevent substitution. Dimensional variations (thickness 0.057" vs. 0.050", width 0.625" vs. 0.630", length 1.246" vs. 1.220") remain within acceptable tolerances for 6 AWG ring terminal applications.

Q: What is the difference between the Bulk and Cut Tape packaging options?

A: Bulk packaging (M6-516RK, P6-56R-T) supplies loose components suitable for manual assembly or bulk handling. Cut Tape packaging (2-33466-3) provides components on adhesive tape in individual pockets, optimized for automated pick-and-place assembly equipment. Packaging selection depends on manufacturing process requirements, not electrical compatibility.

Q: Are all three parts RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. M6-516RK is RoHS Compliant, while 2-33466-3 and P6-56R-T are ROHS3 Compliant. Both compliance levels meet current RoHS directive requirements and are acceptable for equivalent substitution.

Q: Does the serrated termination feature on 2-33466-3 affect compatibility?

A: No. Serrated termination is an additional feature that enhances mechanical grip during the crimp process. It does not alter electrical performance or mechanical fit with 5/16 studs and remains compatible with standard crimp tooling for 6 AWG terminals.

Q: What is the significance of MSL rating differences?

A: M6-516RK and 2-33466-3 both carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) rating, indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions during storage or handling. P6-56R-T carries "Not Applicable" MSL rating, which is standard for non-insulated metallic terminals without moisture-sensitive components. This difference does not affect substitution eligibility.