Soldering Stereo Wires

There are different ways and connections to connect stereo wires or any wires, but I believe that soldering is the best way…or I feel better about it.  I have used electrical crimp type connections before and have not had any problems.  However, in this video I am going to show you  how to solder two wires together.

My son just bought a 2004 GMC Sierra pick-up and want to replace the factory stereo with an aftermarket stereo.  The first thing is to buy the harness adapter and solder or join to the aftermarket harness.

Step 1 – Look up your make and model to buy the correct harness adapter.  We bought ours at Walmart.

Step 2 – Strip the plastic insulation from the ends of the wires to be soldered…harness adapter and new stereo harness.  I used a razor knife in the video, but wire stripper work better and reduce the risk of cutting some of the wires.  Wire cutters like this work well – http://amzn.to/2kHbfzZ

Step 3 – Slide heat shrink over one of the wires. – http://amzn.to/2kJi0RD

Spread the ends of the wires so they can intertwine with each other and twist the wires tightly together.

Step 4 – Use some flux and rub onto the bare wires to be soldered.  – http://amzn.to/2jWxh1X

Step 5 – Place the tip of the solder gun underneath the wires to pre-heat the wires. – http://amzn.to/2kMKhqd

Step 6 – Place the electrical solder on the top of the wire and allow the solder to melt into the wires. http://amzn.to/2lie3jy

Step 7 – Smooth any lumps of solder to provide a smooth surface for the heat shrink to slip over.  Then use a lighter to shrink the heat shrink tight.

Step 8 – I like to use electrical tape, but some people don’t use it.  I just like knowing the connection is well insulated. – http://amzn.to/2li6OYW

And that is it…sounds like a lot when you break it down into steps, but it really don’t take that long.  Another think I didn’t use, but found on Amazon that I think would helpful.  I think I am going to get one of these holders.  Especially, getting older like me, this holder has a magnify glass.  – http://amzn.to/2lgwObi