Flexwatt clips vs solder

[Coleslaw007]

So I just got my order of 4'' heat tape and clips from RBI and I've been reading that mostly everyone prefers the solder method. Does it make a huge difference?

If I were to scrape off the plastic on the metal strips where I'm clipping it will that give a better connection and work as well? Space isn't an issue in this rack so bulkiness is okay.

I've already got the clips and I don't really feel like going to buy a soldering gun but I will if that's going to make a huge difference.

Also I had ordered it cut but I guess they missed it so I'll be cutting it myself, I know not to cut the black but I put a piece of electrical tape over the cut ends without wire right?

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[PitOnTheProwl]

Yes, the ends that dont get clips need to be covered.

I use clips and some like solder, really it wont make a difference as long as you get good crimps and connections.

[The Serpent Merchant]

Unless you Know how to solder I wouldn't bother... The clips can be an issue when they are installed without the proper crimping tool. RBI uses the correct tool, and knows what they are doing. Soldering makes it more likely to have uneven power flow, (especially if you don't know what you are doing) and can even pickup unwanted interference.

[Coleslaw007]

Thanks guys. I don't have a crimping tool, do you think using pliers will get the job done if I do things carefully?

[The Serpent Merchant]

It won't be as good as if the crimping tool was used, but it can be done. I would use a bench vise personally.

[PitOnTheProwl]

I have a set a large jaw pliers that work great on them

[satomi325]

I prefer soldering, but I've used the clips fine in the past. You just got to make sure they're clamped on tight. I had a loose connection once with the clips and it only gave power to the flexwatt when it was bent a certain way. I didn't catch it right away when i was testing it. Thats the only thing I would loom out for.

And using pliers are fine. And I would scrape off some of the plastic off the metal strips on the flexwatt to ensure a good connection with the clips.

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[OhhWatALoser]

Soldering makes it more likely to have uneven power flow, (especially if you don't know what you are doing) and can even pickup unwanted interference.

Actually its just the opposite, a good solder joint will give a near zero resistance connection and does not fail under normal conditions. As for "interference".... what are you talking about? The clips are a pressure connection and reversible. There is more potential for a high resistance connection to form over time on something that heats and cools (expansion and contraction)

Assuming both are installed correctly, are both safe and work? yes, but to say whats better.... soldering is the easy answer.

[Andybill]

Yeah I just used the clips. I scraped the plastic to ensure a better connection and after everything was wired I e-taped the hell outta it to make sure that it wouldnt get bumped loose and that there was no open electrical current.... They work well for me.

[Mike41793]

It won't be as good as if the crimping tool was used, but it can be done. I would use a bench vise personally.

Exactly what i did lol!

I squeezed as hard as i could with pliers but still wanted a better bite so i used a bench vise, which worked great.

NOTE: just make sure its lined up perfectly before squeezing them tightly together!