[Benjo]

I’ll be cutting the wires on my CDI unit to install a new one from cdimagician. What do you recommend for splicing the wires? Are crimp connectors and liquid tape good enough?

 

[spirograph]

I’ve only ever used butt splices and electrical tape/shrink wrap, which has worked OK. I hear that tinning, intertwining the wires, soldering them together and then putting shrink over the top is the more correct way, though.

 

[krukster86]

I've used crimp connectors on all my bikes for splicing. So far so good.

 

[Alan F.]

whatever method you choose be sure to cut all your wires at unequal lengths so as to stagger your connections thus avoiding one big wad of splices.

 

[Sonreir]

Open Barrel crimp connectors are the only way to go.

OEM-Type Bullet & Spade Electrical Connectors for 1960's through 1970's Japanese Vehicles... Bridgestone, Datsun, Hodaka, Honda, Kawasaki, Landcruiser, Suzuki, Tohatsu, VW, & Yamaha for all the tools and terminals you might need.

 

[Crashoverride]

I got some posi locks to try. They seem real easy and make a good connection. Normally I use the solder and connectors. https://www.motorcycleinnovations.ca/Posi_Lock_p/603.htm

 

[Benjo]

Do you know the gauge of the CDI wires?

 

[HamHock]

Pretty sure they are 18 gauge.

 

[JamesPal]

Crimps are better than solder. When you solder a wire the molten solder wicks up the wire strands. A stress riser is formed where the solder ends. If the wire is not mechanically supported any vibration can cause the joint to fail. You never see solder connections on airplanes. A proper crimp tool and a favorite set of splices and compatible bullet connectors is a must have for the home wrencher. Honda uses a 3.9 mm bullet connector.

 

[Bill H]

I vote with Jim Palmer. The bullet connectors would make it easier to work on if needed later.

Bill

 

[Alan F.]

I'm with JP as well, but must point out where he mentioned using the correct type of crimper. Your choice of crimper will make all the difference in the quality and longevity of your connections. The ratcheting type that won't release until the crimp is completed is the best choice.
Over on SOHC4 they recommend a company called Vintage Connections OEM-Type Bullet & Spade Electrical Connectors for 1960's through 1970's Japanese Vehicles... Bridgestone, Datsun, Hodaka, Honda, Kawasaki, Landcruiser, Suzuki, Tohatsu, VW, & Yamaha which has all the parts and tools, they sell different dies for their ratcheting crimper too.

 

[spirograph]

Unbeknownst to me, I wasn't doing it completely wrong after all I third (fourth?) the Vintage Connections recommendation. Their crimper and barrels make even the noob connections I do look good.