Soilder alternative?

[mr.z]

Is there any way to solder electrics without useing a soldering iron of any kind? some sort of metal to join contacts that can just be put straight on after activateing it in some way then goes solid? sort of like steel putty? (is that stuff actually metal based?)

I know idealy you'd use solder and scotchlocks can be used for wires, but just say you dont have a butane soldering iron in your toolkit but have a space for some magic paste/material to do its job..
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>RidingSkills<->Tech Tips<->MyBikes<

[stinkwheel]

What are you trying to solder?

A lot of crimp-on terminals don't really need to be soldered, especially if you shrink-wrap/insulate them afterwards. You will find that most of the bullet connectors on your bike are not soldered. These are they:

50x bullet connectors = £1.50+VAT
50x insulation for bullet = 71p +VAT
50x socket for bullet = £1.49 +VAT
50x Insulation for socket = £1.03 +VAT
Cheapest crimping tool = £3.73 +VAT
TOTAL = £9.94 including VAT

Or you get a kit with an assortment of different terminals (x150 with insulation of the Japanese bullet type) and a slightly better crimping tool for £19.07 +VAT. Essential equipment for any DIY wiring IMO. (part number N9MJ)

From https://www.vehiclewiringproducts.co.uk

edit: I usually crimp then flow solder into the joint after it has been crimped, but this is not strictly necessary. It just makes me feel better about it, some would say you run the risk of getting a 'dry joint' by doing this and are better not soldering at-all.
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“Rule one: Always stick around for one more drink. That's when things happen. That's when you find out everything you want to know.”
I did the 2010 Round Britain Rally on my 350 Bullet. 89 landmarks, 3 months, 9,500 miles.

[pipnet11]

[stryker]

You can buy "cold solder" paste. Not used it myself as you simply cannot beat soldering those joints.
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Now what?

[Git]

The cold solder paste you speak of, if it's the same kind of thing I use it comes as a thick paste that is applied to tin and clean the surfaces before the application of proper solder, the paste needs heating with a gas torch so the transformation takes place from thick liquid to solder coating, never used it on wiring just copper pipes.

[stryker]

All I know is it was recommended for wiring solar panels.

Okay, I'll get me coat.
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Now what?

[mr.z]

Bizzarely i live about 3miles from VehacleWireingProducts, handy

I wasn't wanting to solder anything in particular, jut wondered if there was anything not dependant of heat to get it going..

Suppose i should get myself a new(less crap) soldering iron, how much would a decent(not too expensive but good) priced butane soldering iron cost? am i right in thinking these can be refilled from zippolighter gas refill cans?
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>RidingSkills<->Tech Tips<->MyBikes<

[stryker]

Nope, you can get gas soldering irons, but not petrol.

Maplin do them for about £1.99 or pay £9.99 for a decent one, one that can actually keep the tip hot when solder is on it.
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Now what?