electrical connectors Options

[jimkelly]

I am starting to think these may be the best way to go.

insulated heat shrink connectors along with one good ratcheting insulated connector crimper, for all male, female and butt connectors 22-18, 16-14, 12-10.

vs bouncing from tool to tool, depending on size of connector and style of connector. pic is of an low dollar partially insulated connector, not a fully insulated heat shrink style connector.

also good to know that the bump on the crimper should be on the opposite side of the seam on the connector. but you guys already knew this : )




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CS_YS-F9Z2E


this also looks like a handy tool to have as well for the heavy guage stuff.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxavPsio2iw

[Tom]

A properly soldered electrical connection is a stronger mechanical joint than electrical. The proper soldering technique starts with a thorough cleaning of the joint and applying heat to the opposite side of the connection, heating until, when applied, the solder flows throughout the connection. After cooling a cleaning with isopropyl alcohol cleans off any flux.
What damages soldered connections is vibration and incorrect technique. Imagine a wire soldered to a connector and placed in a vise with the connector in the jaws of the vise and the wire hanging loose in a breeze. Over time the constant movement of the wire will cause cracks at the connector and eventually break. Now imagine the same scenario with the wire held fast to the vise close to the connection, say 4". Connection will last and last, because you have removed the vibration that would destroy it over time. Heat shrink over the connection will help also, but the proper way is to secure the wire to prevent the movement.
If any of you have the 4 red wires at the battery not tied to something close to the connection, take note. When I repaired mine, I had many strands of the red wires broken from what I just described. The 4 red wires are now secured to the large battery cable about 2-3 inches from where they attach.
Tom