Proper wire splicing

GostRidr · 09-22-2006, 05:35 PM

I am replacing the 4 pin connector to my headlight motor from my harness. I want to take a stab at avoiding duct tape like the PO. What is the correct method to splice the new (used) connector in? Solder, heatshrink, connectors, other?!

Thanks!

Dtchy · 09-22-2006, 05:36 PM

Solder and use heatshrink tubing.

GostRidr · 09-22-2006, 05:53 PM

Nice response time Dtchy - Thanks! I've seen cold soldering. Does it matter which one?

Eldorado · 09-22-2006, 09:52 PM

nope dont think so.

JivenJim · 09-23-2006, 03:22 AM

Yep what they said. I put about double the amount of splice in length of heat shrink put it on wire and push Way up so it doesn't melt when soldering. Some people use heat gun but myself and many tech's just roll the soldergun near the Base (where it's cooler) over the placed heat shrink, and Viola. Never used the "cold solder gun" but it look nice for small wires. Won't shrink the heat tube thoe.

Rrrockhound · Rrrockhound's Garage

The cold solder gun sucks. I bought one, tried to use it, threw it away in disgust. I really wanted to like it. The concept is OK, but it only heats the solder, not the wires. So the solder never really flows into the braids. What good is that?

Zero10 · 09-23-2006, 09:15 PM

You mean the cold heat soldering gun?...
It's crap. I've been given 2 and both sucked. At least with one of them I was able to strike a small arc..... that worked better than the soldering iron until the whole tip and plastic assembly melted right off of the tool.

Get a small soldering gun for wire repairs, it will make your life easy.
Strip as much of the wire as necessary, ALWAYS apply flux. Don't bother with rosin core solder, actually apply a flux to the wires, especially when they are 20 years old and possibly have water infiltration. Then heat the wires up, apply solder and shrink wrap the soldered area.

I guess I gave those instructions slightly backwards, since you usually have to slide the shrink wrap on before you splice, flux then solder. Normally I use lenghts of shrink wrap about twice the length of the stripped/soldered area. I also usually apply it two layers thick. I slide one piece of shrink wrap down each side of the splice before I start, and hold the wires in my hands to absorb the heat (keep your hands back a few inches).