Crimp vs. solder

[elewis33]

I put some Anderson connectors on several of my battery connections (to the charger, electrical distribution panel, etc) and soldered the Anderson lugs to the 8 AWG wire coming off the battery. Recently, I was told that crimping is preferred to soldering, because if the wires got hot the solder could melt and presumably disconnect.

My thinking was that soldering would provide a much more secure and permanent connection than crimping, along with improving resistance across the crimp. I understand that crimping the right size lugs on the wire, with a good/proper crimp tool is a good solid connection (a "cold weld"?) but are they really superior to soldering?

 

[Bluedog225]

Crimping is always appropriate. As you note, when done correctly.

Sometimes solder is ok. I always crimp.

Crimping should be done in a way that is completely adequate to hold the wire to the lug. If then soldered, melted solder (yikes) will not cause (another) failure.

 

[fEReSpas]

If the connector is going to be subject to movement like in a vehicle while driving, the crimp will be better. If the connector is going to be in a solid position and not moved then solder would be fine as long as it is not overheated. I crimp because I normally work on campers, my dad solders and have not had a problem.

 

[MichaelK]

For my Trojan L-16s cables, I crimped, AND soldered.

 

[time2roll]

Done is done. Crimp in the future. Solder is for small electronic components.