Dieless Crimpers?

[Davidasailor26]

Wondering if anyone has experience using dieless crimpers for heavy gauge (2/0) battery cable, and how they compare to crimpers with dies.

I know @Maine Sail recommends the FTZ 94284, and the only hydraulic crimper he mentions is the Temco TH0005. I guess I’m wondering about the difference in crimp quality between the FTZ ($130), TH0005 ($170), TH0006 ($150) and TH1818 dieless ($90).

 

[jsailnow]

Die less crimpers give variable results, based on exact force you use. I’ve used Harbor Freight’s hydraulic crimper ($70) extensively on #2 wire (and many other sizes) with excellent results

 

[mermike]

I use both the FTZ and Temco crimpers. I occasionally use the Quick cable right angle lugs which requires some translation with the Temco crimper. I've been curious about the dieless crimpers as well.

 

[JamesG161]

This what we used for 2/0 wire.

note the Anti Ox and first error.

We got it right the 2nd time.
Jim...

PS: Under the Arm type Crimper.

 

[Davidasailor26]

Thanks for the suggestions. I ended up taking the easy way out and just getting the cables pre-made. By the time I priced out the cables, terminals, and heat shrink it would’ve been more than just the pre-made ones. The crimpers and experience with them seems like a good thing to have in life in general, but I couldn’t justify the cost and having something extra to store for such an infrequent use.

 

[JamesG161]

As we were connecting up our new 9kw Kohler diesel generator, our 2500 watt starter needed an 2/0 extension.

Lucky my Son-in-Law, ABYC electrician, had that Crimper[$40] he got on Amazon.

I will soon post that on my Boat Restoration page.

Final connections done this week.
Jim...

 

[capta]

I purchased a hydraulic crimper through Northern Tools for considerably less than the prices you quoted. It has worked perfectly on all the 0/ size battery cables down to size 8 over the last 12 years. I've also used it on topping lift and davit wire. I like it best because I can use it one handed.

 

[Rick Webb]

An old Hot Rodders trick is to use a nut cracker with a dulled point.

I've seen it done and makes great crimps.

I'll look for descriptions on how it is done.

 

[Garbonzo]

The eternal problem we have here is that it is not possible to know a good crimp unless you cut a few in half and see if the cold welding process was successful in all cases and a pretty cramp is not a good cramp. I guess you can ASSUME if it looks good from the outside you can bet your life on it. I use a FTZ during projects and their lugs and carry a hydraulic one for underway for emergencies. MaineSail doesn't recommend stuff just to spend money, I'd go with his recommendation unless you like playing roulette.