I don't know how the rest of you do it...

I've heard all kinds of wacky things like using hammers and what not...

but after about an hour of experimenting and struggling with various tools (pliers, hammers, needlenose, etc)... i finally figured out a fairly easy way to crimp 4g wire... without a proper crimping tool (that can do 4g wire).

I used ... a vise clamp... sure it takes a couple of times, but its actually pretty easy on the hands (i'm not very strong)... the adjustabilty helped tons and allowed me to crimp each terminal in increments without to much effort...

anyhow for those of you intimidated by 4g wire... hope it helps...

 

If you have a bench vise it's easy. If you don't you need a beefy set of crimpers.

 

i found that vise grips work as well

 

Or just use solder with a torch.

 

What he said!

 

That's what I use.

 

i used the impact crimper...

put the ring in the holder, put the wire in the ring, the hit it with a hammer....
it has the 'V' to make a great crimp...

 

I have a crimping tool for large diameter wire. I should have done the torch and solder method, then I wouldn't have had to buy the tool!

 

a lot of people can not solder...so crimp is faster for them

 

dgHotLava, where can I get that tool u just showed us? That would be great.

 

i don't remember where i got mine....

but a quick search shows this..

http://www.quickcar.net/tools/tl_ic.html
or
http://www.wiringproducts.com/?target=dept_39.html

 

i use a hammer...

 

Crimp and solder....best of both worlds and you know your connection is tight.

 

i suggest duct tape. :D

 

I used a Chisel and hammer in the past. One sharp blow,
cut into it in two different spots, then I flow some solder into
the exposed end, and heat-shrink to seal from the elements.

 

i usually use a hammer...or if i can't find one, i use a large heavy wrench or a rock...
i try to wait till im at work, we have a 4/0 gauge crimper