How can I crimp 0 gauge terminals

hornyleprechaun · 07-17-2006, 02:47 PM

I got the 1/0 amp kit from knukonceptz and I cannot crimp the terminals onto the 0 gauge wire... What is the best, least expensive way to do this? I wouldn't mind purchasing a tool from walmart, but I don't know what would work. I've strained my puny biceps trying to get the thing crimped but it won't go!

binary.h4x · 07-17-2006, 02:54 PM

Bench vise.

psyrex · 07-17-2006, 03:16 PM

I used a heavy pair of pliers (the blunt nose slip-joint type), a hammer, concrete floor, and lots of swearing. I use the pliers to hold it where I want to crimp it, and hammer the jaws against the concrete to close them to crimp.

v8 scimitar · 07-17-2006, 03:17 PM

unless you can get hold of a hydraulic crimper then solder them on

hornyleprechaun · 07-17-2006, 03:21 PM

Yeah I read somewhere about a vise so I'll look at walmart about those. I think I'll hammer against the ground as the last resort

binary.h4x · 07-17-2006, 03:24 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by psyrex

I used a heavy pair of pliers (the blunt nose slip-joint type), a hammer, concrete floor, and lots of swearing. I use the pliers to hold it where I want to crimp it, and hammer the jaws against the concrete to close them to crimp.

Those are channel locks, and that method will work, won't be pretty, but it'll work

hornyleprechaun · 07-17-2006, 03:32 PM

Yeah I looked on home depot's web site and they have this:

http://www.homedepot.com/prel80/HDUS...gim.0&MID=9876

I think that should work for what I want it to do. Thanks again for the help!

psyrex · 07-17-2006, 03:45 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by binary.h4x

Those are channel locks, and that method will work, won't be pretty, but it'll work

Well, usually covered by a pretty red or black sleeve, so you're fine. I solder all connections and then cover them in silicone, so I hope it'll last me a while.

It's easier and cheaper than buying specialized tools for a single use:

1) Apply hammer.
2) Repeat as necessary.

turbocad6 · 07-17-2006, 03:48 PM

soldering is probably best, but even then it should be crimped first...

most install suppliers will sell a crimper... it's a block with a slide that you just put the connection in, then slam it with a hammer... there not too expensive, maybe $20-25 & probably worth having if your working with this stuff

RedGTiVR6 · 07-17-2006, 05:07 PM

crimp it one way - as in pushing the two tabs inwards towards the wires. then turn it 90 degrees and fold it all together if you will. then apply solder. You should be golden.

oh yeah - then heat shrink or cover with the rubber covers. Just don't leave it all exposed.

scott_fx · 07-17-2006, 05:24 PM

i've always just used a mini torch and a lot of solder. never crimped before hand... though it would only make the connection more secure

hornyleprechaun · 07-17-2006, 06:38 PM

Well I got the vise from home depot and worked like a charm... well it worked but after lots of force turning the damn thing.. It was only $15 so wasn't a bad investment at all. Thanks again for the help.

Shadow · 07-17-2006, 06:58 PM

I always just used setscrew or compression fittings

A Tweeter up near where I used to work modified some bolt cutters for crimping. Worked incredibly well and you had a ton of leverage so it wasn't a chore.

p&gcustoms · 07-17-2006, 10:33 PM

go with the bench vise they work great

boomintrac · 07-17-2006, 11:10 PM

if you want a proper crimp this is what turbo was describing. http://www.theinstallbay.com/i/produ.../IBHDCRIMP.jpg
if you want a good connection without spending the money on a crimper just solder it a cheap torch is only like $10-$15 pliers, vices, and vice grips and channel locks are not the right way to do it however it will work I just wouldn't guarantee the connection.
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