Simple Q about Front Fuse Panel Wiring

[86 911]

Hi all,

I have a '76 911 and the fuse panel wiring is 100% non-original. Unfortunately someone re-wired the whole car. Anyways I am swapping my front fuse panel and want to know how the wires are supposed to enter the fuse panel. On my car, someone crimped male connectors on the ends and then tightened the screw onto the connector in the fuse panel. I thought this was the way to go as I do not have a factory setup to compare to.

On the other hand, I stopped into the electrical shop today to purchase more of these male connectors and the guy was telling me that all I have to do is to strip the end of the wire, apply solder to it, and then secure it in the fuse panel with the screw.

Which is the factory setup (and the right/best way to do it)?

Thanks!

[timmy2]

Euro style Barrell connectors are original. Special connectors and crimper required. ( Correct Crimper and connectors are expensive) We use them at work for wiring relay panels.
Solder works but may come loose over time as it is softer or can get cut depending on how tight you go on the screws.
I've used both methods.

[86 911]

Ok great, thanks! Looks like I will be using the strip and crimp process as I replace the old male connectors with new ones. They are the standard, hardware store, connectors but hopefully will work as well as the original barrel types.

[donagain1]

I'd love to see some pics (more than one, on a variety of year model cars) of an original fusebox that has been factory fitted with something other than just skinning the wire, twisting it tight, and tightening the setscrew. My '85 is just that, and I know the original owner... great architect, can't find an electirical or mechanical skill with both hands.

Personally, I'd be leary of non-brass connectors. Hardware/tool store ones are aluminum, which has a different expansion/contraction rate than do the twisted copper conductors. High current draws can heat the wires & connectors, resulting in hi-res connectivity and potential trouble down the line.

[timmy2]

This is what I have used. You need the correct crimper though. Basically comes out like factory but with some wire insulation protection on the ends.
Even fits some of the doubles Porsche put in the fuse block. (Wide insulation ones)