Crimping vs. soldering: what’s better for automotive wiring?

Everyone who works on cars and trucks regularly has an opinion on whether it’s better to crimp wires or solder them. It’s one of those eternal debates in garages. In this video, Dorman’s mechanics provide their opinions.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments. And if you agree, please hit the like button to let us know!
Read about more topics like this at ShopPress.com.
00:00 - Intro
00:33 - What are some of the downfalls of soldering?
03:15 - What are some of the downfalls of crimping?
04:51 - Why do automotive manufacturers use crimps?
06:20 - Tips & tricks for wiring appearance?
10:44 - Pitfalls of wiring in the field?
12:32 - Go-to tools for electrical work
15:30 - Outro

[@nomennescis1037]

I really liked the mention of the Builders Series non-insulated connectors! And it was a pleasure to listen to two professionals who definitely know their stuff.

[@Hellvrglrga]

Automatic wire strippers are also pretty sweet makes the process quicker, for me at least.

[@callmezucc9318]

I personally am a fan of heat shrink butt connectors with the ratcheting crimper. Good mechanical bond with excellent environmental protection. Never had any issues.

[@DormanProducts]

Those definitely have their place! They can get bulky if cuts aren't staggered. It is definitely convenient to not have to thread all that heat shrink into place on a bigger job. -Lem

[@simpletruthsbyabby4258]

Thank you for the information. One question. There is a hairline crack in the line that runs from the radiator to the transmission that is causing coolant to spill. Can that line be crimped?

[@DormanProducts]

We would not recommend crimping that.

[@simpletruthsbyabby4258]

@@DormanProducts Thank you for your response.

[@howardsnellgrove9516]

where do you find these builders kits

[@DormanProducts]

Good question! Please visit DormanProducts.com and when you find a part you'd like to purchase, scroll down and hit the "where to buy" button. Put in your zip code and we'll show you stores in your area that carry the part.

[@johnbrown6189]

Done correctly both methods are good. To technically say one is harder or better than the other is just not a fact. And yes you can tell if a soldered connection is bad if you know what your doing same as you can tell if a crimped connection is bad if you know what you are doing.