Crimper & crimp connector recommendation? (8-16AWG copper stranded)

[catalytic]

OK guys, I need your expertise: I need a dedicated crimper to help me rewire machine tools during restorations. Everything I do is 8-16AWG copper stranded wire, and 90% is 12-14AWG. I've read about 12 threads on GJ, but having never used a 'real' crimper, I'm really not sure which style to look out for. Would strongly prefer a USA or European tool, and budget tops out at around $50 new or good used (so no fighter jet wire crimpers for me). Vintage tools are fine, though.

I would also appreciate any recommendations on brands or styles of crimp connectors. They will be going into slot connections on motor switches.

 

[chard98]

Look at the Thomas and Betts crimper, They actually a great job. I use mine daily. Look for the Orange and black handle. They will crimp 2 sizes. 8 AWG is a bit of a stretch, I go to a larger set for 10 thru 1/0! Grainger carries them, most Electrical supply stores do too!

 

[rodm1]

You are going to need probably two crimper's to cover that range.
For the smaller gage wire I love my Thomas Betts WT112M crimper.
Greenlee makes a ratcheting crimper that covers your full range but never used it.

Greenlee ratchet crimper
http://www.zoro.com/i/G2357433/?category=5178

Thomas Betts WT112M
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00197091I/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[zkling]

Ideal 429, done. I researched this to death, those are about the best you can do without going to a ratchething. Of course since I splurged on the ideals I've found all the others, T&B, Klein, Channelllock, and a cheapo greenlee. The ideals are by far the nicest IMHO.

 

[lightning02]

Where is the cheapest place to buy the Ideal 429?

 

[zkling]

Where is the cheapest place to buy the Ideal 429?

I bought mine on ebay, like new don't think they were ever used for right under $25 shipped. Keep an eye on ebay and you should be able to get one under $30 TYD in very good condition. Otherwise I think enco or amazon was the cheapest.

 

[Brownsfan]

I crimp ever day all day and I use the for larger awg connectors-
http://store.snapon.com/Crimpers-Blue-Point-174--Pliers-Terminal-Crimping-10-1-4--P634304.aspx
I use these for your everyday smaller awg wires-
http://store.snapon.com/Crimpers-Pliers-Terminal-Crimping-Cutter-9-3-8--P709447.aspx
Pricey but worth it. They are by far the most comfortable I have EVER used. That's import to me because these are probably my most used tool.
Now a close and I mean very close second is these
http://www.kleintools.com/catalog/j...cutting-tool-non-insulatedinsulated-terminals
The Snap Ons have a superior cutter and that is what makes them my favorite. Truth be told the Kleins can be bought MUCH cheaper and will serve you just fine For what you need them for . I think I paid $30 for them.

 

[JonnyMac]

I hope that amazon will drop a set of channel lock 909's through my door any day now. I got them on the recommendation of a few guys here. For $18 they are worth a go..

 

[theoldwizard1]

Where is the cheapest place to buy the Ideal 429?

eBay

 

[theoldwizard1]

Everything I do is 8-16AWG copper stranded wire, and 90% is 12-14AWG.

You will have a hard time finding ANY crimp connectors for wire larger than 12 gauge.

I would also appreciate any recommendations on brands or styles of crimp connectors. They will be going into slot connections on motor switches.

In general I prefer uninsulated crimp connectors, specifically TE Connectivity (AMP) Solistrand with shrink tubing for insulation. These are available through all electronic supply houses (Allied, Newark, Digikey, Mouser, etc.) and are reasonably priced.

I'm not certain what you mean by "slot connections" ? "Faston" ?

 

[fabtec]

Do you have pictures of what types of terminals you are working on?

 

[catalytic]

I just picked up the Ideal 429's. I really appreciate the recommendations!

 

[quattroJoe]

My favorite manual crimpers are Kleins, paid about $30. I've used them for 8 AWG occasionally, but it's a stretch. Like you, the majority of what I'm crimping is 12 AWG or thinner and they work beautifully for that. For 8 AWG and thicker you're better off having a second set that's suited for those sizes.