by kayakrguy » Thu Nov 23, 2006 9:34 am
Phil & Ningning wrote:
snip....
....For my money (and my trailer) a butt connecor using a quality crimper will do the trick. You MUST use the one that makes a u-shaped crimp. Those cheap ones from the auto parts store simply will not be reliable. To make a 3 way connection with a butt connector, you should use the size that you can comfortably fit two wires of the same gauge into on one end, and then strip the third wire and double it over before inserting it into the other end. Crimp tight. use a toothpick to dab a little RTV silicone in the ends and where the crimper broke through to seal out the elements and your done. Be sure to go easy on the RTV. A little goes a long way.
Phil,
Good note, I agree about solder being good but NOT if you don't do it right!! Which, I am not sure I could do without a LOT of practice.
Your tip about using butt connectors instead of the 3 way connector is interesting. As a practical matter, you seem to be suggesting that two #14 wires could be mated with one #12, properly crimped and sealed.
Corerect?
Also, I have never heard of insulating varnish or RTV--where get them?
Thanks again for a thoughtful note..
Jim
A disposition to preserve, and an ability to improve, taken together, would be my standard of a statesman...
But what is liberty without wisdom, and without virtue? It is the greatest of all possible evils; for it is folly, vice, and madness, without tuition or restraint.
Edmund Burke