So, I have to completely rewire my bike. The "builder" did a shoddy job of wiring this thing up. Last week, it let the smoke out of a lot of wires. Doing the rewiring is not an issue, I've built wiring harnesses before but, I'm using new (to me) type of connectors. I need a crimper that will work with open barrel type of pins. I've looked at a few crimpers but, the reviews are very mixed on everything. I don't want to spend $150.00 on a tool that I will in all likely hood only use this one time. Can anyone recommend a crimper that will not break the bank but, produce good tight crimps?

 

I'll be real disappointed if the owner of this tool doesn't step forward and loan it to you......Somebody HAS to have it........I have a harbor freight crimp too POS

 

A while back I got one of these.
http://www.dragspecialties.com/produ...oductId=246584

If you are using Harley OEM connectors then it will work.
If you are using aftermarket I suggest you use a little solder because the aftermarket ones won't go through the wire coating.

 

If it's the type that I think your talking about, $150.00 isn't a terrible price. I've got a no-name one and I use it constantly for any auto/truck/bike repair. Besides solder, most used electrical tool I use.

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pin-Full-Cyc...item27e4f5865b
Before I soldered and heat shrinked - this tool crimps with the perfect roll - just like factory. Used on the Deutsch EVO terminals and earlier shovel terminals.

 

I looked at that one, problem is, it only goes down to 18ga wire. I have 4 wires that need to be 14ga, headlight etc. I have the pins for 14ga, they appear to be basically the same diameter at the 18ga, I guess the difference is the depth the crimper compresses? Could you just not press a deep with the 18ga jaw? Hope I'm explaining this right.

 

You do realize that 14 gauge is bigger than 18 gauge right?
Are you planning on using Harley connectors or aftermarket?

 

we solder all the end of the crimp rings and then heat shrink the closed end

you get the best of both that way

 

A tool like this will help
http://www.dragspecialties.com/produ...umber=38070062

 

Have one - just as good to use a mini screwdriver. On the EVO they come out pretty easy. Check YouTube for a couple of videos.