Solar install question

[PaisleyDale]

Is an MC4 crimping tool required to to crimp MC4 connectors or will any crimping tool work.

Thanks - Dale

[ktmrfs]

there are other crimp tools that have the correct jaws to crimp MC4 connectors. Sargent makes a few crimpers with interchangeable jaws, which include dies for the type of crimp needed on a MC4.

But the common cheap crimper tool at the hardware store for common crimp connectors is NOT a good one to use on an MC4 connector.

If you often crimp other types of connectors, something like the sargent tool is good because you can have literally dozens of dies for any crimp you can imagine.

If all you want to do is an MC4 connector and likely nothing else, or only other connectors with the same crimp style, then just get an MC4 crimper from amazon or ebay.

[MrWizard]

It was Simple

i think you mean

you thought you could get away not buying one, and using something else

[PaisleyDale]

Thanks for all the info. I just ordered one from Ebay, darn it, thought it would be simple.

[mike-s]

You can get a well reviewed MC4 crimper on Amazon for <$20.

[time2roll]

Order correct size custom made.

www.solarblvd.com

Or a local installer. But I am not sure it is a huge deal.

[mike-s]

You need a proper tool. Crimp connectors come in a wide range of sizes, so "any crimping tool" will not work. Especially, the el-cheapo ones which are like pliers and are made for the common spade lug type terminals. Those things aren't even good for their intended use.