Inexpensive heat shrink crimp connectors?

[Brian S]

Hey, Mainsail-

I was in my local Harbor Freight tonight, and I found the following: http://www.harborfreight.com/10-pack-14-16-gauge-watertight-heat-shrink-butt-connectors-66596.html

The price was really good - but too good to be true? They say they are tinned copper, with adhesive in the heat shrink to make a waterproof connection. Seems like if they were crimped with a proper ratchet tool, they would work pretty well...

What are your thoughts?

Thanks,
Brian

 

[Mike B1026]

I also ran across this:
Polyolefin tubing for superior protection
Shrinks to 1/3 of original size
Shrinks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit

http://www.harborfreight.com/42-piece-marine-heat-shrink-tubing-67598.html

It appears to be better quality than I can buy elsewhere locally but I'm still a little nervous about HF.

 

[syoun10]

I also ran across this:
Polyolefin tubing for superior protection
Shrinks to 1/3 of original size
Shrinks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit

http://www.harborfreight.com/42-piece-marine-heat-shrink-tubing-67598.html

It appears to be better quality than I can buy elsewhere locally but I'm still a little nervous about HF.

I've used these and am very satisfied. Of course, my wire connections haven't actually been under salt water (the ultimate test) so I can't guarantee they are 100% waterproof, but I don't see any reason why they should be worse than any other brand.

HF have other items as well, including runs of heat shrink tube about 10 inches long. I've used them a lot. Also SS swivels etc (but they are 306 rather than preferred 316 - however the grade is clearly marked).

I use, and like, HF A LOT!!

 

[Mike B1026]

The "marine" assortment is adhesive lined and they are a 3:1 shrink ratio, where the others seem to be 2:1 with no mention of adhesive.

 

[Steve Dion]

Check out Del City too. The generally have good quality stuff at very competative prices.

http://www.delcity.net/