Saw them on speedTV.

http://www.posi-lock.com/index.html

The Posi-Tap caught my eye because I need to tap into an existing ignition lead. Looks like a good way to do it.

All the rest of my connections are crimped and heat shrinked so not sure I could use the other styles but they are nice.

Pity there are no multi-conductor connectors in their line. It looks like only their "Posi-Tite" connection is weather-proof. The price isn't too bad compared to something like a WeatherPak connector, esp. when you factor in the price of a good crimp tool.

I tried one of the type shown. Wal-mart has some of the types in the automotive section.

They work okay but are not the cleanest installation out there.

Cheers

Wouldn't be using them for anything high current (headlights, etc).
Solder and tape is still the neatest and most secure method for joining wires in my experience (auto elec for 20 years).

QUOTE

Solder and tape is still the neatest and most secure method for joining wires in my experience (auto elec for 20 years).

This really does appear to be an issue that's nearly religious. Aircraft use has been crimp only for a long time, and those guys are pretty anal. It comes down, I think, to two issues: solder connections are harder to make properly, and harder to check after they're made, but crimp connections are very easy to make badly, with improper tools (and crappy connectors). Both get a bad rep as a result.

With a proper (expensive) crimp tool and good connectors, crimp connections work well and will last for a very long time. Done with care, solder connections will work well and will last for a very long time. IMHO, with a good crimper and some practice, it's possible to make good connections much faster than with solder, and these connections can be checked visually.

Both require some sort of weatherproofing and strain relief. Heat shrink is tidier than black tape, but tape will work.

I use them, and once the wires are connected these babies stay connected. Great product and very easy to use.

They are phantasitc! They are not water tight, but they hold tight as all git out. Only problem… They are expensive as platinum.

Michael.

QUOTE (lapuwali @ Jan 3 2005, 02:35 PM)

This really does appear to be an issue that's nearly religious.  Aircraft use has been crimp only for a long time, and those guys are pretty anal.

Correct.
If you look at a automotive wiring loom you will also notice that there are no soldered joints from the factory.

The issue with soldering is the copper hardens (precipitation hardening) with heat and makes it more brittle. Probably a BIG deal on aircraft and for manufacturers - hence no solder.

Our cars are probably a little bit less stringent in the requirements.

Crimp works well if done right but splicing into a wire (pick up power, etc) is a lot more difficult and takes up more space with a crimp conection.

As long as a soldered joint is kept free from excessive movement (ie taped to the loom) then it is definately the most weather resistant and enduring for us mere mortals.

The inline connectors are great for temporarily wiring stuff that you may remove or during testing of new components. They're also extremely handy on the side of the highwway.