TR2/3/3A Instrument panel cleanup

[Crankshaft]

As I clean and re-wire the instrument panel, is there an advantage or disadvantage to "tinning" the wire leads as I attach them to the various terminals? Also as to soldering the ground wires together?

 

[TR3driver]

Are you talking about the clamp screws used on earlier cars, or the 'Lucar' quick connect terminals used on post-60K?

For the quick connect terminals, my preference is to crimp the terminal onto the wire, then solder only where the wire protrudes on the terminal side of the crimp. (If you start with "insulated" terminals, cut away the vinyl sleeve first.) The crimp provides better strain relief, the solder provides a better electrical connection. Then ideally, add some heat shrink tubing over the crimp and solder, for even better strain relief plus some environmental protection.
https://s258.photobucket.com/user/TR3driver/slideshow/Installing Wire Terminal

The problem with tinning stranded wire is that the surface of the solder forms a single point where each strand will flex under vibration. The localized flexing will eventually cause it to work harden and break.

Soldering ground wires is a judgement call; in some cases you'll want to be able to remove it in the future. I definitely would not solder to the ground wire that runs through the harness to the control box.

 

[Crankshaft]

I have the clamp screws, therefore you have me convinced to forget the tinning idea. I always apreciate the input.

 

[DavidApp]

When I get to that area of my car I think that I will use these on any screw clamp type connections I have. They crimp on the stripped wire so the screw is tightening on the crimp connector rather than the wires. You can get them without the plastic sleeve.

David

 

[Popeye]

https://s258.photobucket.com/user/TR3driver/slideshow/Installing Wire Terminal

Excellent tutorial and commentary. Thank you!