Third hand

[Mr. Wright]

I must have had to many Wheaties this morning. I just finished up the Dog, and tried to start her. She spun over the first try, then on the second try, she just clicked, so I mashed the start button harder, and broke it. While replacing the switch, I was in need of a third hand to hold the wires while I soldered them together. I found a small u-bolt and a couple alligator clips. Worked great.

 

[pknowles]

Thanks for sharing the tip. Most of the time we overlook the easy way and end up taking the harder/longer route.

 

[CHOPTOP45]

Great idea thanks for sharing.

 

[francoblay1]

EXACTLY what I need this afternoon!!!! I need to install the number plate lights!!!!

No way I will be able to find one of those in a hurry though ....

 

[LA_Dog]

Nicely done. you could also use a piece of scrap 12ga home electrical wire (or any other stiff type of wire) bent into a U, then crimp the alligator clips onto it. I've done that before, you can bend the wire to get it to hold on in the oddest of places.

A 1" by 2" flat bar magnet also works well. Alligator clips will stick to it in any position needed.

Tip: to make joining of two wire ends easier, first "tin" each wire end (cover it with solder by heating end of bare wire with iron, then letting solder suck onto it - don't just melt the solder onto the wire it will come off eventually). then place the two wire ends alongside each other and use the iron to melt the tinned ends together. this will give you the best possible bond.

Tip: Use thin silver-bearing solder (really thin stuff, comes in 1oz roll from Radio Shack or other electronics places). melts easy / speeds up your work, can use the typical pencil iron with it. Don't use thick solder or rosin cored. you'll be cussing.

Tip: Buy a jar of liquid electrical tape at home depot / lowes - brush it on and cover the soldered connection to keep out moisture.

 

[francoblay1]

Nice Tips LA Dog! :2thumbs:

 

[Brew]

I've found using a metal cloths hanger works well... Just saying!