PV connector crimpers

[Sgtnarc1]

There are many brands of crimpers (inexpensive/expensive) for installing connectors to pv wire. RENNSTEIG Crimping Pliers (expensive but you get what you pay for) is a well known brand and if I was in the business of doing solar for a living I would have these in my toolbox. But, as a diy'er I will need to install 8 connectors.

Just because some crimpers are inexpensive does not necessarily mean they won't do the job.

Which crimpers are diy'ers using and how happy are you with the results? Also like to hear the opinion from professional installers on their viewpoint of crimpers other than the RENNSTEIG Crimping Pliers.

[PNW_Steve]

Good question.

I have looked at crimpers but have the same reservations and look forward to the replies.

[Ampster]

I bought this crimper on Amazon to put MC4 connectors on 11 used Sunpower panels. I had to buy more connectors and the tool has worked well:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078B7N3WD/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B078B7N3WD&pd_rd_w=tsCrN&pf_rd_p=45a72588-80f7-4414-9851-786f6c16d42b&pd_rd_wg=8n3uj&pf_rd_r=H5SFR53NPV5RYWGM8ENH&pd_rd_r=91346657-7718-4a3b-9850-9a07f32cea2a&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFFVzBMQVBVUU1DUUomZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMjQwMTIyOVFVREFIUlZWWkRHJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAyMDE1NDExQzFTMjRFMFBQVlk3JndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfZGV0YWlsJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

[Sgtnarc1]

Ampster,

I read the reviews and the ones that address the crimping of connectors all seem good. Thanks, and let's see what other members have to say.

[Ampster]

I bought the kit because I needed the connectors. As it turns out it is just a ratcheting crimper for 10, 12 and 14 AWG wire. I have spent a lot of money on crimpers over the years and ratcheting ones insure the best crimps until you get to bigger wires and then you need hydrolic crimpers to get the best connecton. You can get a good ratcheting crimper on Amazon for under $20

[littleharbor]

I have one of the inexpensive versions and after close to a thousand, if not more,crimps I have to admit the inexpensive ones work great. One look at the crimp and you'll realize that you don't need anything better. There are a couple different jaw configurations. I have both and would only recommend the type pictured.
MC-4 crimping tool.jpg

[Sgtnarc1]

Thanks littleharbor

[littleharbor]

You're quite welcome.