How to use butt connectors?

Question

Okay so some wires on my car going from the o2 sensor connector to the engine were cut somehow and I'm trying to reconnect them again. I know, I know I should solder them but I'm solder impaired and it's pretty difficult to get to the wires under my car let alone having to solder them. I'd like to use butt connectors or something like that because they seem a little easier to use but I have no idea how to use them. I managed to cut the insulation off exposing the copper wire but where do I go from there. Is it a matter of sticking both ends into the connector like a fingertrap and just squeezing the center with pliers or is there more to it?

Answer 1

That's all there is to it, although you may want to tape them afterwards to eliminate moisture.

Answer 2

The connectors are designed to be crimped with special crimping pliers. The wire is prepared as you describe and inserted in the proper size splice.  They are better than solder for any use that has vibration.  Solder will stiffen the wire and then the wire will fatigue  and break.  I they are not taped, water will get in the splice and give you problems in the future.

Answer 3

It's better to use a pair of crimping pliers rather than just regular ones. You can get away with regular pliers pull on them a little when you get it crimped to be sure it's not just smashed. Sometimes when you use regular pliers you can smash the dickens out of them and the wire will just pull out. Tape is a good idea if you don't it will corrode and trouble again.