[McGyv3r]

What crimping tool would you get for making #2 ground cables?

I need to make some new ground cables/straps for my e30, but I'm new to large gauge electrical work. I want to do it correctly so the cables last a decade. I'm of the 'Buy Once, Cry Once' mindset for most of my tools, but I'm also fine with the Harbor Freight stuff for some things (their fine-tooth ratchets are pretty decent).

This TEMCo TH006 looks like a decent tool, but I want to be sure it's the 'right' tool if I'm going to spend $150.

For comparison, this tool is also blue, but only costs $54. Its clear from the pictures that the molds are not as well made.

Is the TEMCo really worth the extra $100 for occasional use? Or am I overthinking it?

I plan to use #2 flexible welding wire for the cables and 1/2 inch tinned copper webbing for the straps. I haven't found any quality tinned power lugs on amazon, so I'll try to snag those locally.

[McGyv3r]

For anyone interested, I bought the TH0006 and the TEMCo TH0007 Hammer Crimper today. You get a 10% discount if you buy direct from the manufacturer and still get free shipping.

I'll post a link to my build thread once I use them to make cables.

[Phil @ Integral Audio]

I have / use the TEMCo. Have been very happy with it. Its not one of those tools you find yourself using all the time... but, when you do use it you'll be so happy with the results and feel so great about your crimps it makes it worth it. Love being able to get all that force out of the hydraulics. A bit clunky the first few times used it to manage the cable, the lug, the crimp, and the release but the results are great. Assuming you have some but if you don't highly recommend getting some high quality heat shrink and a heat gun to finish everything off and you'll be super pro. Only thing I don't like about the tool is I can't do 3/0 and 4/0... but I know thats asking a bit much... ; )

[Onizukachan]

I use a torch and solder rather than crimping.

[xbimmer01]

Originally Posted by Onizukachan

I use a torch and solder rather than crimping.

Same here its better and easy to use than crimping

[McGyv3r]

Originally Posted by Onizukachan

I use a torch and solder rather than crimping.

From what I've read, cables in automotive applications should always be crimped vs being soldered. Apparently solder joints are more prone to failure due to vibrations.

Here's my post on r3vlimited.

Short story, I'm very happy with the quality of crimps these tools provide.

[Onizukachan]

Very nice work, but the story/myth about failing due to vibration is for cold solder joins. Have a few decades of doing alarms and amp installs… a properly soldered connection will outlast the car itself.

If you have the tool, go for it, but I see no reason to invest in a hydraulic crimper to make a couple of double 0 lugs when a vice, torch and 95/5 solder will do the job just as well.

[McGyv3r]

Originally Posted by Onizukachan

Very nice work, but the story/myth about failing due to vibration is for cold solder joins. Have a few decades of doing alarms and amp installs… a properly soldered connection will outlast the car itself.

If you have the tool, go for it, but I see no reason to invest in a hydraulic crimper to make a couple of double 0 lugs when a vice, torch and 95/5 solder will do the job just as well.

Fair enough. I don't know how often I'll need to crimp stuff, but im glad to have this in my collection tools for when I need it!

[Onizukachan]

If you were my neighbor I’d probably borrow it.. Really nice work on the braid3d ones, those are a real bastich to make right.apologies if I came off critical as that is damn fine work.

[McGyv3r]

Onizukachan No worries and thanks! I was just guessing at how to make the braided ones based on some pictures i've seen online.