While solder may be alive and well in terms of soldering solid lead
components to a PCB, that is not what we are talking about. Soldering
stranded wire is a completely different thing and it is absolutely falling
out of fashion. Partly due to the skill needed to solder without wicking
past the strain relief, partly economics in the case of manufacturers. It
also cannot be "redone" as once the solder is into the wire you can't get it
out. I'm no saint in these matters, I soldered two wires together in a butt
joint yesterday. I'm simply giving you the truth, the joint I just made
would generally be better, and more reliable in a properly done crimped
connector. I've been soldering joints for over 35 years for a living and I
know how to do it, but I've learned through experience and industry
demonstration that crimping is a better way.

It's a matter of belief, if you absolutely have faith that you can do it
better than Boeing and all the other factories who am I to disagree with
you.

As for your list, vibration cannot loosen a crimp, but will break solid wire
or wire made solid with solder in short order. Corrosion, a properly done
crimp is absolutely gas tight, and will not corrode. If you'd like to
compare badly soldered VS badly crimped you're on your own, there are too
many variables when you do it wrong.


"abripl" wrote in message
ups.com...

Crimped terminals are easier to learn.....
That's probably the main reason why so many in aviation use it. I can
see the average person trying to solder with a clunky, 100W, steaming
iron and doing a bad job. With crimping there is "little" to learn. But
soldering is hardly a dying art. Zillions of hams, electronic buffs,
use it. A decent temperature controlled soldering iron with a little
practice will prevent wicking past the terminal into the wires - and
not really a problem in most cases. Cold joints can be inspected and
redone. Two big reasons for soldering: 1. Vibration - a real problem in
aviation, promotes crimps loosening. 2. Oxydation/Corrosion, especially
with disimilar metals - seen lots of corroded crimps while soldered
terminals are still holding.