To solder or not to solder..? new 4 AWG cables

[kdeerman]

I finished a couple of hours ago, I think it worked OK, But Scotty was right about the heat needed. I had to hold the iron on the terminals for 90 seconds or so, before applying the solder, and LOOK AT THE SIZE OF THIS IRON.

I couldn't video it, but if anyone tries this, the solder should flow (like liquid) up into the strands of the wire and into the crevices between the wire and the terminal, and be very shiny, after cleaning with rubbing alcohol and a stiff brush. Any small round balls of solder that did not flow, rough or dull areas could mean cold solder joints and should be heated again until they are smooth and shiny.

[cdb770]

Originally Posted by kdeerman

Scotty,
I have a good grade of solder, that has the flux already in it, and an iron big enough to heat the terminals and cables for a good flow. We use this at work to build flight-worthy cables, with some wires as big as 8AWG, but never soldered welding cable. Still think I need a torch?

I'll check the threads, Thanks!

kdeerman, what do you do in the aviation industry? I noticed you siad the wiring you did was flight-worthy.

[kdeerman]

cdb,
not in the aviation industry, but we build custom electronic systems of all sorts that are sometimes used in planes.