For splicing into existing 12 volt wiring, what is the best way to do so? Best as in resistant to vibrations and won't burn out?I have seen 3M Scotchlok connectors, but I wonder how secure they will stay over time.Soldering is also an option with heat shrink tubing.Of course, there are crimp connectors, but can someone recommend a good crimping tool? So far, the ones I've used, one has to be careful with or else it will cut the crimp joint in two. To boot, wires seem to work loose over time.

Best way?Cut the existing wire. Strip back enough to solder. Strip the additional wire to the same length. Twist the "new" wire onto one of the "existing" wires. At this point, slide on some shrink tubing of the appropriate size, and slide it out of the way. Flux and solder the 3 wires together. Using something like liquid electrical tape coat the splice and let dry. Slide the shrink tubing over the splice and shrink it (heat gun is best).

splicing for 'what' ?location , wire size, and load dictate what can be done, which may not be optimum which can be done in a easily accessible locationif it is to be permanent soldering is bestnext crimped with a hydraulic crimpernext use a 'split bolt' connection and tighten fully, before taping and sealingsomething you might want to changesplit bolt is bestnext is solid 'wire nuts', not the soft scotch lock typethe only time i will use the soft ones is if that is the only thing available, and time is of the essence, then i will replace them with the good kind

Cut, strip, add in extra wire, get butt connector with adhesive lined shrink tube from West Marine, crimp, heat the shrink tube till the adhesive oozes out, cool, good to go!

I refuse to use 3M Scotchlok connectors as they will eventually cause intermittent problems especially when exposed to humidity. Seen way too many problems from them. They are quick & easy but that is all. :(

When I have done it, I have used crimp on butt connectors. Maybe not the best, but works, and if it comes loose, you can pull the wire out and replace the butt connector for another try.

Best way to splice into a 12 volt wire? | Good Sam Community

mapguy
Explorer
Jul 12, 2013
Old & Slow wrote:
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
Why screw around?

http://www.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887

I didn't. I ordered.

O&S

These with the Klein Crimper and a length of adhesive lined heat shrink work great in places where there is no need for a disconnect in the future.

If a disconnect is needed in the future an insulated stud plus ring terminals on the wire is the best. I will use a split bolt but prefer the insulated stud ....

All OEM car/light truck manufactures specify proper crimp connectors and heat shrink for warranty splices -soldering is not allowed. Problem with soldering is work stress and operator skill during the solder process.
Old___Slow
Explorer
Jul 12, 2013
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
Why screw around?

http://www.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887

I didn't. I ordered.

O&S
2112
Explorer II
Jul 12, 2013
Airstreamer67 wrote:
Bobbo wrote:
This is the crimping tool I use. Less than $6 at the big box store.

I use the same type device for my projects.

They must work for others too as they've been around for decades and seem to be sold everywhere.
I have been using the same for years and hasn't failed me yet. I get the splices at the auto part store.
Airstreamer67
Explorer
Jul 12, 2013
Bobbo wrote:
This is the crimping tool I use. Less than $6 at the big box store.

I use the same type device for my projects.

I'm not a professional so don't need to produce work like one. But for my use over the past 50 years or so, that type of crimping device has worked for me. I can't remember one failing to get the job done for me, and I've used them a lot as I've had many wiring projects through the years.

They must work for others too as they've been around for decades and seem to be sold everywhere.
Old___Slow
Explorer
Jul 12, 2013
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
Why screw around?

http://www.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887

Best idea so far for me. I need to splice into the E/Scooter system and add my Solar panel. Now where to find this item, around the corner. I bought the split bolts at HD. Maybe they have to be used.

O&S
MEXICOWANDERER
Explorer
Jul 11, 2013
Why screw around?

http://www.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887
mlts22
Explorer
Jul 11, 2013
Mind linking a source for the ratcheting crimping tools?
BruceMc
Explorer III
Jul 11, 2013
I have one of those ratching crimps for larger Anderson PPs as well.

Occasionally, depending on the application, I'll crimp the terminal, then solder the tips of the wires to the barrel but not where the wire exits the barrel. This is the best of both worlds - belt & suspenders, plus a little flexibility at the wire/barrel joint.
wa8yxm
Explorer III
Jul 11, 2013
Not for butt connectors but for terminals I use a crimping tool designed for use with Anderson power Poles.

Now that puppy (it is a ratcheting model) does a job that at the worst is as good as a factory job.. And I've seen factory crimps not as good.

One solid crimper.

I still like to solder though (Belt and suspenders on a dishcloth I never done seen before... line from a funny song).
Chris_Bryant
Explorer II
Jul 11, 2013
I also recommend the Klein crimper- but I use the 1005, which has a stake on for non-insulated, plus an oval crimp for insulated terminals.

I use either nylon (with heat shrink over) or heat shrink terminals. There are 2 things to look for in crimpers- the anvil that does the crimping needs to be reasonably wide, and the hinge between the jaws must be rigid, and keep the jaws in line.
As to adding a line- as has been said, it all depends on the wire sizes and loads. For heavy loads and large wires, I usually try to add an insulated post, though I have also used ring terminals with a machine screw, split bolts, crimped but connectors, and I have even used the awful scotch lock connectors (though I fill them with grease)- times when either time or physical restraints kept me from doing anything else.