Is there a problem with tap splice wire connectors

[Zerokharma]

So I have some 3 inch cube lights on my a pillar. The lights can be wired up to the turn signals and the running lights. They are Auxbeam color play. I was just going to at least wire them up to the turn signals but after I bought some tap splice connectors I saw some people said not to use these connectors because they are not good. Just wondering if anyone has used these and are happy with them and if not what are your issues. Thanks

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[agentdr8]

Wire taps don't provide the most secure connectivity and can lead to inconsistent behaviors. Usually they don't cut through the insulation on both sides of a wire evenly, so the tap is only in contact with a few strands from one side.

If you're just testing prior to making a more permanent install, they're probably ok. But I prefer using butt connectors over them, and would rather just solder and heat shrink over either of those 2 connector options.

 

[alphawolff]

I'm firm believer of cut, splice, solder, heat shrink.

 

[mrtm1970]

These:

https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/forum/threads/jl-jt-headlight-auxiliary-light-adaptor.136546/

I got one of the prototype harnesses and and they work fantastic. I connected my IPF bumper spot lights to come on with the bright lights. I did do a T-tap into the wire right behind the front wheel well to have the Amber Back LED on my KC Flex 4s (A-Pillar Mounted) before KC developed this harness though.

https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/fo...our-jeep-jl-today.3033/page-3885#post-2582282

 

[Zerokharma]

I might try the taps to see if I even like the lights hooked up to the turn signal before I try a more permanent route.
Thanks all

 

[Nokones]

If the circuits that you are tapping into are part of the vehicle's CAN system/network more than likely you may be causing interference to the other devices/components on that network that very well could fail and that could be catastrophic.

 

[roaniecowpony]

T-taps and the like are really a shortcut that can be unreliable and even cut your OEM circuit. They are not allowed on light aircraft (or any aircraft for that matter), so that gives you an idea of their functionality and reliability. They are the devil's work, IMO. Just say no to T-taps.

 

[Renostever]

I'm firm believer of cut, splice, solder, heat shrink.

Agree! And with the butt connectors that include preloaded solder all you need is a heat source.

 

[roaniecowpony]

I might try the taps to see if I even like the lights hooked up to the turn signal before I try a more permanent route.
Thanks all

If you want to just try them without damaging your OEM wiring, string some wire to your fuse panel and use a "FUSE TAP" to get to the circuit. [Tip] How to properly use an add-a-circuit (hint: they're directional) : r/Dashcam

Also, use a relay to power anything that the current draw exceeds the OEM circuit design limit.

 

[bd100]

Another method:

Cut 1" or so of insulation mid-stream in the wire, but do not cut the wire itself.
Poke the third wire between the strands of the intact inline wire.
Wrap the third wire around the inline wire, at least one wrap on each side.
Bend the third in the direction you want it to end up.
Solder. Be sure to heat everything enough that the solder is drawn into the joint.
Zip tie in place for strain relief.
Liquid electrical tape for insulation of the piece of abstract art you have created.
Standard electrical tape or friction tape or whatever around the entire bundle, for abrasion resistance.
Kind of an ugly result, but it works, and you haven't broken the original line.

 

[roaniecowpony]

Cutting into wiring is bad practice, IMO. Tapping circuits, if done at all, should be at the origination of the circuit, such as the Power Distribution Center (PDC) or fuse panel. Adding components to existing power circuits is bad practice. Use relays for powering lights or other components that need switched circuits. Stringing modification wires directly to the battery is bad practice. Use an ignition switched high power relay to energize a bus bar where all the component connections can be made.

Now, if I would follow my own advice, I'd be doing good.

 

[Heimkehr]

...after I bought some tap splice connectors I saw some people said not to use these connectors because they are not good.

Scotchlok wire taps, as they're known, are easy to use and destructive in about equal measure. As suggested, their design is such that the insulation may not be perforated correctly, which could in turn lead to erratic functioning.

Post #3 mentions what I'd do.

In a pinch, for testing purposes anyway, Posi-Taps are safer and proven reliable.

 

[Zerokharma]

Well I have been convinced to just take these back to Lowe’s. Don’t want to mess up my electrical just to have my cube lights flash when I turn on the turn signal

 

[bd100]

A turn signal on the side of the vehicle can be useful. If someone is in your blind spot they cannot see your front or back blinker lights. If your cube lights can shine blinker light sideways then they may be worth keeping and wiring up.

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