James Gatlin · video

What this video covers

Proper crimping technique for both insulated and non-insulated connectors covers wire sizing, stripping, insertion, and tool placement. Insulated connectors follow a color code: red for 22–16 gauge, blue for 16–14 gauge, and yellow for 12–10 gauge.0:31 Non-insulated connectors carry no color and must be read from a stamped gauge marking on the barrel — a critical point because ring connector body size does not reliably indicate wire gauge.1:09 Stripping requires the correct cutter size, a straight square cut with no nicked strands, and roughly a quarter inch of bare wire; insulation must not enter the wire barrel.1:48 When crimping insulated terminals, the tool's rounded jaw sits slightly behind the barrel edge, not flush with it.2:41 For non-insulated terminals, the tool's divot jaw presses on the non-gap side of the barrel — the opposite of what feels intuitive.3:03 Cheap crimpers with incorrect jaw gaps produce bad crimps regardless of technique; professional tools make a mark confirming the crimp is complete.3:41 Pulling firmly on each finished connection confirms it is seated.2:48

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