After using channel lock pliers to crimp battery terminals onto 6 AWG wire being used to replace the battery connections on the front of the trailer; @sowewentdad decided a proper crimping tool would be better for the battery disconnect installation project. @sowewentdad looked at a hex crimp tool, but he decided to go with the TEMCo Hammer Lug Crimper for its versatility and compact size. While this tool does not go in the travel trailer, the garage is pretty full and having something smaller to store is a bonus.
The versatility of the Hammer Lug Crimper is because it does not require dies. 8 AWG and lower gauge wire may be placed in the tool with a copper terminal and successfully crimped. A Hex Crimp Tool requires a different die for each wire gauge and may not successfully crimp if the terminal being used is from a different manufacturer. The Hammer Lug Crimper does require the use of copper terminals for its ductile properties and aluminum or other alloy terminals should not be used.
How to Use the Hammer Lug Crimper
Step 1:
Place the terminal in the jaw of the hammer lug crimper with the stripped wire in the terminal.
Step 2:
With the hammer lug crimper on a solid surface, strike the hammer lug crimper ram with a 2-4 pound sledge hammer 1-2 times. When the hammer impact feels sold, the crimp is complete.
Step 3:
Lift up on the spring-loaded ram to remove the terminal from the hammer lug crimper.
Step 4:
With the terminal removed from the hammer lug crimper, inspect the crimp to make sure the wire cannot be removed from the terminal.
Negative:
The primary negative of the Hammer Lug Crimper is evident when striking the crimper. Every time @sowewentdad hit the crimper with a 3 lb hammer, the hammer lug crimper bounced and had to be reset. With practice, it may be possible to strike the hammer lug crimper with less force thus not making it bounce. Using a clamp or other device may hold the hammer lug crimper down between strikes, alleviating this issue. Alternatively, the hammer lug crimper may be used in a vice to apply the crimp thus avoid the impact and bounce.
Conclusion:
The TEMCo Hammer Lug Crimper securely crimped the 6 AWG wire @sowewentdad used during the battery disconnect switch installation. The terminal crimp was far superior to crimp performed using channel locks during the previous battery cable replacement. @sowewentdad recommends having a proper crimp tool if you are going to be working with your RV or travel trailer battery wiring.
@sowewentdad
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