On boats, most electrical problems are caused by bad contacts due to oxidized connections. If you have to make a connection, make sure you do it properly!
To prevent corrosion from affecting the bare end of electrical wires, the best way is to tin them. This simple operation consists in putting a drop of solder on the conductor previously heated with a soldering iron. Composite Braid
The tin rises in the multi-strand by capilarity and protects the copper durably. Attention: it is the copper that must be heated, the solder melting by contact with the hot metal. Otherwise, the tin would not rise under the insulation and the efficiency would not be optimal.
There are lugs of all sizes and shapes. The most important thing is to choose a model adapted to the type of connection of course, but also to the diameter of the wire concerned. It will be crimped at two points, using pliers.
It is a common and cheap tool. All the more reason not to choose the very first prices which may crush the terminal without crimping it. Before crimping the terminal, do not forget to slide the insulating sleeve over the wire.
To avoid short circuits, connections must be insulated. There is a magic material for this: heat shrink tubing. It consists of small colored tubes that are slipped over the wire and shrink when heated, for example with a lighter flame.
In addition to their insulating qualities, these heat shrink tubes come in many diameters and colors, which offers the advantage of making it easier to locate the circuit. This small accessory should be included in the inventory of any marine toolbox.
Monofilament Braid With a tinned wire, a well crimped terminal and insulation that covers both the wire and the terminal when appropriate, your connection is perfectly reliable. It is ready to be plugged in and will stand up to time and sea air without a hitch.