Crimp connectors

This isn't specific to A&V but I figured this is the forum that would have the most input and it certainly applies.

I'm looking for advice on crimp connectors. I've used a variety of spade and bullet crimp connectors with frustrating results.

I simply can't reliably crimp the connectors to a wire. (Insert "you're a wimp" comment here) I'm really not a complete wus. But regardless it shouldn't be that hard. I use my wire striper/cutter/crimper combo tool to crimp. It takes me several teeth gritting attempts to get the wire locked in. I see them used by others and can't imagine everyone puts up with this.

Is there a particular brand of connector that works well? Is there a better tool to crimp with?

Thanks

TL

 

If I'm forced to use connections like that I typically strip close to double the amount of wire I'll need. Then I fold over the end about 75% back on itself. Then I stick that in the connector and crimp that in. It gives the terminal a lot more to hold onto.

 

I used tons of crimp connectors on my truck, as long as you use the correct crimp for the guage you are fine, I put 18g in a 12-10 crimp and it slipped out after being crimped

 

Thanks.

That may be my problem. The wire I used was smaller than 18g. It's possible that doubling it would help. Or just getting the right sized connector. Sounds like there's not a specific tool or anything.

Thanks again.

TL

 

Solder. It makes a better connection.

 

Agreed. But it frustrates me that I can't make a crimp connector work.

 

Sometimes it's not always a good idea. Sometimes you want to be able to take the wires off every once in a while. But I agree for fixed usage it's the best for sure.

 

Maybe you need a better crimp tool.

 

That was my original thought. Which begs the question - do you recommend a particular crimp tool...

 

Crimped connections ARE suitable for automotive use - with all the attendant vibration.

1. Use the right size crimp for the wire you're using

2. Use a ratchet crimper. I THINK the one I use is 69555K62 from the following page:

http://www.mcmaster.com/#wire-crimpers/=bmez15

 

This, if a crimp must be used.

 

If you can double the wire back - it means you're using too big a crimp connector for the wire.

 

heres the one I use.. never had any problems. Definitely make sure you are using the correct size connectors for the wire though.
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&productId=202039375&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&ci_sku=202039375&ci_src=14110944&cm_mmc=shopping-_-googlebase-_-D27X-_-202039375&locStoreNum=949

 

I'll bet these would be good. Not sure I do this enough to warrant the cost.

I'll bet this is good advice - and the source of my problem. I definitely had a lot of room around the wire and could have doubled it.

This is what I've been using. As everyone has mentioned - I think my connectors are too large for my wire. NOTE edit - used to say too small - thanks bjmoose.

Thanks all.

 

X2

I hope you're not using the 5 dollar tool from the auto parts store. Those suck. I have a klein crimper and a seperate klein stripper. Use them every day at work with no issues at all. I should have just spent the money and got the right tools a long time ago. Use the right tool and the correct terminal for each size wire and you should have no issues.

Edit: Home Depot should have them both at a decent price. I want to say like 35 bucks for the crimper and 20 for the stripper I have.

Edit: Here's the type of crimper I have: http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc...splay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

and stripper http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc...splay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053

 

I'm guessing you just misspoke here, but if you can double the wire back - it means the connectors are TOO BIG - (although the numeric wire gauge number would be lower - perhaps that's what you meant.)

Don't mean to pick nits on a typo, but don't want a misunderstanding to slip through either.

 

VERY good point. You are correct I just typed it wrong. I've edited the original post to avoid more confusion.

Thanks

TL