Crimping large butt connectors?
#1
05-22-17, 05:15 PM
Crimping large butt connectors?
I got some NAPA 784276 Butt Connectors and I am not strong enough crimp these babies even with vise grips. I am splicing #8 stranded. Can I hit them with my 3 lb sledge?
#3
05-22-17, 06:16 PM
Super Moderator
The crimping tool for that type of connector is either oval or presses a dimple into one side for a good connection.
If you just squash it you may not have a secure joint.
You could try a non-insulated connector, squish it, solder and wrap with tape.
If you just squash it you may not have a secure joint.
You could try a non-insulated connector, squish it, solder and wrap with tape.
#4
05-22-17, 06:26 PM
Group Moderator
Use a hammer type crimper. I've used them for years with excellent results.
Lincoln Electric Lug/Cable Crimping Tool-KH538 - The Home Depot
Lincoln Electric Lug/Cable Crimping Tool-KH538 - The Home Depot
#5
05-22-17, 07:00 PM
Banned. Rule And/Or Policy Violation
I use a pair of exothermic weld crimper pliers for mine. You can't release the pliers until the full travel of the handle is made making the connection permanent.
#6
05-22-17, 07:34 PM
Thanks All
I just ordered the hammer crimper from HD. One more question: I am 72 and wondering if there will ever come a time that I don't need one more special tool? I thought I already had one of everything ever made.
#7
05-22-17, 07:39 PM
Group Moderator
I am 72 and wondering if there will ever come a time that I don't need one more special tool? I thought I already had one of everything ever made.
We can never have enough "stuff".
#8
05-22-17, 09:05 PM
Member
4mm wire? That's 6 gauge? I bought a long handle wire crimper from HD. De Walt I believe as it's yellow and black. Like this one:
Klein Tools Journeyman Crimping/Cutting Tool-J1005 - The Home Depot
it will crimp and cut anything. Thing is long and strong, gives excellent lever.
Klein Tools Journeyman Crimping/Cutting Tool-J1005 - The Home Depot
it will crimp and cut anything. Thing is long and strong, gives excellent lever.
#9
05-23-17, 03:37 AM
Super Moderator
Igor, that sure as heck wouldn't crimp what the OP is talking about.
I once took a small pair of bolt cutters I got at a yard sale for $1 or so, the little 9-10" handled models that had really chipped and broken jaws. Ground down the sharp edges and opened a hole to 3/8". Worked great for crimping 1/2" copper pipe onto battery cables and such to act as terminals. Of course also fluxed and soldered them with a torch.
I once took a small pair of bolt cutters I got at a yard sale for $1 or so, the little 9-10" handled models that had really chipped and broken jaws. Ground down the sharp edges and opened a hole to 3/8". Worked great for crimping 1/2" copper pipe onto battery cables and such to act as terminals. Of course also fluxed and soldered them with a torch.
