Solder vs crimps

SS Performance · Jul 8, 2022

I use non-insulated crimp connectors, I have a high quality crimper. I then use heavy duty heat shrink, it has a glue inside the heat shrink that melts when heated. This creates a sealed connection that won't allow water into the connection so no corrosion.

I am not against soldering but it does require some skill and some of the places I have had to make repairs are not easy to access.

AuroraGirl · Jul 8, 2022

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this is what ford says to do a simple splice, for reference

heres a modern GM example of how you should handle wire repair for a seat harness (Airbag critical)

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about half the post(after this part) is dedicated to the propeer wrap and supporting the harness as to properly support the wiring and keep it trouble free for years

Curt · Jul 8, 2022

What are everyone's thoughts on stuff like this?

Solder Heat Shrink Connector

Basically there's solder built into the heat shrink tubing so the solder melts as the heat shrink does. It seems like the best of both worlds when you don't have enough space to crimp, not enough skill to solder (like me lol), and want to seal up the wires.

98chevy2500SS · Jul 8, 2022

I always use a mini butane torch for soldering, makes soldering much quicker and easier than waiting for the wand to warm up then waiting for the wire to warm up.

MIHELA · Jul 8, 2022

Volkswagen also uses heat seal butt connectors. They work very well.

AuroraGirl · Jul 8, 2022

Curt said:
What are everyone's thoughts on stuff like this?

Solder Heat Shrink Connector

Basically there's solder built into the heat shrink tubing so the solder melts as the heat shrink does. It seems like the best of both worlds when you don't have enough space to crimp, not enough skill to solder (like me lol), and want to seal up the wires.

I have had good luck with them, they are good for keeping the splice "thin" so it doesnt bulk up whatever is being spliced. however it can be a little funny trying to get at certain repairs since you dont have a crimp you have to be pretty delicate until its cooled after doing its thing. Its best to always shrink tube to support the splice.

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it isnt super obvious, but I have one of those inside this marine heat shrink. the epoxy stuff in the heat shrink kinda does that I think but ive had success, definitely something that is part of the toolbox and not useable all the time.

AuroraGirl · Jul 8, 2022

98chevy2500SS said:
I always use a mini butane torch for soldering, makes soldering much quicker and easier than waiting for the wand to warm up then waiting for the wire to warm up.

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in addition, this is just one example but this type of attachment is GREAT for heat shrink. it makes quick quick work and even work of the tubing

Donald Mitchell · Jul 8, 2022

Either, if done right is ok. I work on old radios and electronics and use solder a lot. If i can get to a connection on my truck I will solder it, but if its hard to get to I crimp it using dielectric grease on the wires before I crimp them. Those solder bead crimpy things, I'm not so sure about. I have tried them but the jury is still out.

RichLo · Jul 9, 2022

Im in the worst part of the rust belt and I have to fix crimp connections on a regular basis, even those fancy shrink wrap ones. I have never had to fix one of my solder/shrink wrap connections and rarely have to fix other peoples solder joints no matter how ugly they may be. I only have problems with the crimps, the ones that go bad are either under or over pinched. Its pretty tough to mess up a solder joint with a nice long shrink tube. The only solder connections I have to fix is when they dont get it hot enough to flow into the joint.

And THANK YOU for not bringing these into the conversation!!! I wake up with cold sweats when I pick up a vehicle or trailer with these until I eliminate them:

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AND ESPECIALLY THESE!

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RichLo · Jul 9, 2022

BTW, this is how to get an unbreakable solder joint, make the wires hold the strength and let the solder be the glue to just hold them in place

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Solder vs crimps

SS Performance

OBS Enthusiast

AuroraGirl

I'm Awesome

Curt

Sometimes when I close my eyes, I can't see.

98chevy2500SS

Specializes in Accessories 101

MIHELA

1-5-6-3-4-2-7-8

AuroraGirl

I'm Awesome

AuroraGirl

I'm Awesome

Donald Mitchell

1990 C1500 5.7L

RichLo

E I E I O

RichLo

E I E I O

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