How to Attach Spade 10 AWG Solid Copper


I am working on DIY cable project. I am almost done, I just don't know how to attach the spades I purchased. I have spades that require crimping. I need to somehow attach a 10 AWG solid single copper conductor to the spade. Can someone suggest a cost effective tool for accomplishing this. I have never crimped a connection and I have had a hard time finding a resource to aid me in my project, any will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
dfelkai

Showing 1 response by jea48

Mechanical crimping of lugs or sleeves over solid core wire will loosen and fail with any physical movement of the connection. If you use a standard crimping tool I would recommend you solder the lug to the solid #10 wire after crimping. Make sure you apply enough heat to cause a good flow of solder between the barrel of the lug and the solid wire.

A Hi-press where the lug is compressed around the wire would be a good mechanical connection. Though the barrel of the lug would need of the no seam type to survive the compression onto the solid wire. I am not aware of a Hi-press tool for that small of a wire though.