Wire Crimping Tool

Product Features

The SolderStick Wire Crimping Tool offers a range of features designed to ensure reliable and efficient crimping. Key features include the following.

• Durable ratchet mechanism for consistent, secure crimps.

• Ergonomic handle for comfortable use during extended projects.

• Compatibility with a wide variety of insulated and non-insulated connectors.

• Adjustable crimping pressure to accommodate different wire sizes.

• High-quality steel construction for long-lasting durability.

• Easy-to-use design that is suitable for both beginners and professionals.

Applications

The SolderStick Wire Crimping Tool is versatile and can be used in various applications. Some of the most common applications of this tool include the following.

• Attaching connectors to electrical wires for secure connections.

• Creating custom wiring harnesses for automotive or industrial use.

• Repairing or maintaining electrical systems in vehicles, boats, or homes.

• Crimping terminals onto wires for electronic projects and assemblies.

• Ensuring strong and reliable connections in networking and telecommunications cables.

• Installing or replacing connectors in audio and video equipment.

How to use a Wire Crimping Tool

Here is a quick guide on how you can use the SolderStick Wire Crimping Tool.

Preparing the Wire and Connector

Select the right wire and connector before crimping to get the best results. 

The wire gauge must be compatible with the connector size to achieve a secure fit, which will help with both electrical conductivity and mechanical stability.

When stripping the wire, use a wire stripper to carefully remove the insulation without damaging the conductive material inside.

Typically, you should strip about 1/4 to 3/8 inch of insulation, depending on the connector's requirements, to expose enough wire to create a solid connection.

After stripping, insert the wire into the connector, making sure it is fully seated.

The conductive part of the wire should be in contact with the metal inside the connector, while the insulation should be flush with the connector's edge. This ensures the crimp can securely hold the wire without exposing any part.

Using the Crimping Tool Correctly

To use the crimping tool correctly, start by opening its jaws and placing the connector with the inserted wire into the appropriate crimping slot.

Ensure the connector is properly aligned with the tool’s die, matching the size and type of the connector used. The wire should remain fully seated in the connector throughout the process.

Provide even pressure, steadily squeezing the crimping tool handles until the crimp is complete. When using the tool, make sure to follow its specific mechanism, whether it is single-stage or ratcheting.

This ensures the connector is compressed evenly, creating a strong bond between the wire and the connector.

After crimping, inspect the connection to ensure it is securely held. The crimp should be tight, with no visible gaps between the wire and the connector.

If the crimp appears loose or the wire is not securely held, re-crimp the connection, ensuring the connector is correctly positioned before applying pressure again.

Testing the Crimped Connection

Thoroughly test your crimped connection to verify that it is strong and conductive.

Start by gently tugging the connection to ensure the wire is securely held by the crimp, with no movement between the wire and the connector.

Then, Set the multimeter to continuity mode and place the probes on either side of the crimped connection. A multimeter is an effective tool for checking electrical continuity, verifying that the crimped connection allows electricity to flow properly.

A successful test will indicate continuity, confirming the electrical connection is intact.

Finally, visually inspect the crimp for signs of weakness or improper crimping, such as gaps between the wire and connector, uneven compression, or exposed wire strands.

Addressing these issues immediately by re-crimping or starting over can prevent future connection failures.