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