Self-aligning connector system for electrical connectors

A self-aligning mounting system is provided for mounting an electrical connector assembly to an appropriate support structure (42) having a mounting aperture (56). The system includes a housing (44) having a forward end for insertion into the mounting aperture (56), a rearward end and side walls (100) extending between the ends. At least one deflectable aligning beam (98) is cantilevered from at least one side wall (100) of the housing for engaging an edge of the mounting aperture (56) and exerting forces on the support structure (42) for aligning the housing in the mounting aperture. A detent structure (106) is operatively associated between the housing (44) and the aligning beam (98) for holding the beam in an inoperative condition spaced outwardly of the side wall (100) of the housing and for releasing the beam (98) to a deflectable condition to facilitate self-aligning the housing (44) within the mounting aperture (56). A frangible break-away means (108) also may be provided between the housing (44) and the deflectable aligning beam (98) for holding the beam in its inoperative condition.