crimp electrical connectors Options

[ruddyboys]

I bought some crimp on electrical conectors from my FLAPS. First when they are installed they look like crap. Second if I pull them apart from say a male spade the most likely fall off. I thought about soldering them but to pull a soldering gun out to the car or under it sucks. are there any better types. Also I have to replace some wires, can get solid colors to match, what can I use to make the stripes that will last so the wires match the wirind diagram for future owners.

[lapuwali]

The trick with crimp connectors is you need to use uninsulated connectors and a proper crimp tool. You insulate the connector (if necessary) after crimping with heatshrink. This is much more time consuming, but if done correctly, the connection will last a long time. A proper crimp tool has a heart shaped die and folds the two "wings" of the connector over so they both point "into" the wire. There should also be a second set of "wings" that grip the insulation on the wire. If the connectors you got have the little bit of insulation on the end and are crimped with a tool with an oval die, then yes, they're crap. Quick to use, but don't expect much service life, esp. in a part that will vibrate substantially.

One place I know of to get spade and ring crimp connectors, a decent tool, and wire that comes in various colors including tracer wire is www.britishwiring.com. As they name suggests, they mostly cater to the Lucas crowd, but the connectors are universal and they MAY have wire in the correct colors. I have yet to find another small-order source that has this variety of wire colors and sizes.

For multi-pin connectors, the GM Weatherpak line is one of the better ones available in small-order quantities. The best deal I've found so far is www.speedwaymotors.com.