stupid question...taping wires

[VTLexus 10+ year member]

I am trying to install an aftermarket sub/amp into my IS350. ive used the lexus forums to basically figure out the wiring. people keep referring to tapping into wires. i know i can splice the wire and solder to and that will tap it. is this the only/best way to do it? any other ways to tap into wires?

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[avs20 10+ year member]

I solder everything. Peace of mind, but sometimes you just cant solder wires because of location so I use these:

with these:

You can also use scotchloks:

But again, soldering is the best way to make connections.

 

[VTLexus 10+ year member]

do u cut the wire u want to tap and strip it on both sides, then feed it into that thing? and then the third output is ur new lead coming out?

 

[mokedaddy 5,000+ posts]

Dont use the scotch locks those are pretty crappy.

If you are using t-taps, the first picture, you can just strip a small portion of the jacket back and clamp the t-tap on the wire with pliers. Than use the male spade, second pic and plug it into the t-tap after you have crimped the spade on the wire you are adding into the circuit.

You can also do what is called a wire knot. This is very similar to the soldering method without using a soldering iron. You strip back a little of wire in the middle of the run. Stick your pick through the wire and then insert 2-3 inches of the wire into the hole you made with the pick tool. Than wrap the wire around the other wire and tape or heat shrink the wire.

 

[Ed Lester 10+ year member]

eww, Scotch locks are horrible. They crimp on but can come loose and are bulky and ugly. Just strip the wire, solder and tape.

 

[avs20 10+ year member]

That is why they were my last option I never use them, but some people do. Solder Solder Solder.