How to Crimp Wire Connectors:One of the most common reasons for the failure of electronic or electrical components is poor or loose wiring connections. While making wire connections is a simple thing to do, it's often neglected or done quickly with little thought to the negative consequences of loose wires causing lost connections, poor signals and equipment failure.

Instructions

1 Choose the right connectors for the job at hand. Crimp connectors come in sizes keyed to the gauge of the wire. If you're uncertain about the gauge of the wire you'll be crimping the connector to, check it with a wire gauge. In fact, many crimping tools have a wire gauge built into the tool so you can check the wire's size. A crimp connector that's too large or too small may eventually slip off the wire.

2 Strip the insulation off of the wire you'll be crimping the connector to so that 3/8 inch of bare wire is exposed.

3 Slide the wire into the crimp connector. If the conductor is multi-strand, twist it so that the wire is tightly wound. This way, individual strands won't get stuck as you insert the wire into the crimp connector.

4 Place the crimp connector into the crimping tool. Many crimping tools have specific openings for different gauge crimp connectors. Use the correct size.

5 Squeeze the crimping tool tightly, then release. Give the wire a gentle tug to be sure it's firmly connected into the crimp connector.