Multiple Wire Splice

[jeffw]

I am currently redoing the wiring on my 1977 kz650 and have started digging into the existing one to get a better idea of how it was originally done. My question is I am finding multiple wires spliced together. For example the turn signal is spliced for the signal, switch, and dash indicator. The original harness solder all the wires together and then uses a metal band. What is the best way to do this, should I do it the same way or should I try and use a like a 3 or 4 wire connector like vintageconnections.com sells or something that I am not thinking of. Just looking for the best way so I don't get much voltage loss across this joint.

 

[Sonreir]

As long as you're using solid connections that are free of corrosion, you don't need to worry too much about the flow of current. I prefer the crimped connectors because they're easy to switch around when necessary and they generally stand up to vibrations better than soldered connections.

 

[DrJ]

I prefer soldering and coating with liquid tape.

 

[mydlyfkryzis]

I prefer crimped connections too. The 2 or 3 into one VintageConnectors are appropriate.

If you are going to solder, bear in mind that the joints a more prone to stress crack just adjacent to the solder joint. This is because the solder stiffens the wire, and vibration causes bending right at the start of the solder. If you go solder, the liquid tape is O.K., but Heat shrink Tubing is better. It provides a little more support, stress relief, around the joint.

What is nice about the vintage connectors, if you use bullet connectors, taking apart later is much easier, replacing electrical parts is easier.

Just chose your poison...

 

[jeffw]

Ok ya I bought one of the kits from vintageconnections and it came with a few of those style. I am doing bullet connectors everywhere so I might just do the crimp style. I might have to buy some more of the multiple unit ones after realizing the number of them on this bike.

 

[mydlyfkryzis]

If you do the crimping carefully and neatly, I doubt if anyone would know if it it came from the factory that way. The VintageConnectors crimper does a great job.