Wire Repair

Apologies for the lack of updates on the blog since graduation, illness and work have kept me exhausted. As my former energy and enthusiasm returns, I will make at least weekly updates henceforth.

I have done many things since my last post, ranging from oil changes and fuel filters to basic scan tool work and injector replacement, electrical diagnostics, and more additions to my toolbox. As I am several weeks behind, rather than writing it all up as one or several posts of my weekly activities, I will present them as single activities per post mixed among my current work. Such as a new tool, or the injector replacement.

For today's topic and what I did at work today: wire repair. A Volvo dump truck which had multiple wiring issues involving missing or damaged insulation, and a toggle switch which needed replacement.

Damaged insulation at the toggle switch terminals.

New toggle switch and a choice of two heat-shrink crimp connectors.

I chose the red, smaller one suitable for 16 gauge wire. This is the finished product, before putting the switch in its mounting and testing to ensure the lights it controls work. They did.

Connecting a fresh piece of wire to replace a damaged section. Again, heat-shrink connectors were used.

My reflection:

I am starting to get decent at basic wire repairs. I prefer the use of heat-shrink connectors, but they are not always necessary (in the cab, for instance). In my learning process, I have trashed a few of these crimp connectors as my crimping tool (Snap-On brand) can punch through their insulation if you're not careful. My final attempt in the last picture had zero connector casualties and no mistakes, as I am getting a decent feel for the crimping process. Third attempt at wire repair, third time is the charm?