Connection clip for vintage fischertechnik modules

Between the original fischertechnik electronics modules a small red clip with two metal conductive legs can be inserted to loop through the power supply. These connectors originally had the part number 36380 and are becoming increasingly rare, as they have not been manufactured since the 1980s.

Because I also use the form factor of the original fischertechnik electronics modules, often affectionately called “Silberlingen” because of their aluminum front plate, for my own modules (and replicas of the originals), it became increasingly important to find original clips.

For this reason, I had been looking for a way to make these clips myself for some time. After several attempts at melting the (slightly thicker, 0.3 mm thickness is better) metal strips into a small 3D-printed plastic bar, I finally came up with this very simple and effective manufacturing method.

In addition to the two parts, you also need two metal strips 3mm wide. The thickness of this metal strip should not be too great; I use the 0.1 thickness, which is readily available online. First, fold about 4mm of a 6.5cm long strip around the top of the connecting bar. The strip should run down parallel to the printed support strip. Fold the metal strip around the bottom of this and then around the top again. Do this twice and push the cover on.

The photo shows the ‘straight’ end result. If the connecting clip slides too easily between the modules and does not connect properly, it is advisable to bend both legs slightly in two places with pliers so that the clip resembles the original more closely. This will improve the connection even further.

If you only need an insulating clip, you can print my previous, non-conductive, one-piece model (https://www.printables.com/model/1001752-isolating-clips-for-fischertechnik-electronic-modu) or simply use this version without attaching the metal strips.