zlacker

A correctly done crimp uses enough force to form a cold weld. Unfortunately, without a calibrated machine to do it, it is pretty hard to determine if enough crimping force has been applied. Without the cold weld, corrosion will compromise the joint after a year or so. The solder will also prevent moisture from getting into the joint.

You're right about not letting the solder wick up past the connector. But that's not an issue if the wire is properly supported with a clamp.

My experience with crimps is electrical gremlins, with soldered crimps, no trouble at all.

OEM crimps also come with a molded housing designed to keep out moisture (and corrosion) and provide mechanical support for the joint. The crimp-on connectors at the auto parts store are vastly inferior.

>>Walter+(OP)
> without a calibrated machine

That's called a crimping tool. They grow on trees. They're designed to achieve the correct amount of force to make a gas tight, permanent connection without destroying the contacts. All you need to do is select the correct connectors for the wire size you're dealing with and squeeze it.

>>topspi+f4
Good luck with that. There are all kinds of crimping tools.

I watched a professional cable installer once crimp the coax F connectors on. I got the manufacturer and model number of it. It's from an outfit that only sold to professionals, and cost about $200. Since I was going to pull all the coax myself in my house, it was worth the money and I haven't had trouble with the results. The consumer grade crimping tools from the hardware store are terrible.

It's the same story with wirewrap tools.