Ormiston Wire splicer

[graham]

The 4 lowers on my boat are 4 mm so I could make them up myself including buying the tool for not a huge amount of money. Anyone used one with any tips etc?

 

[PetiteFleur]

Why not use the StaLok type of end connection? All you need is two spanners to tighten up and you can make them the exact length.

 

[graham]

My thinking is that the tool can be used again and again to replace guardwires etc the ferrules and thimbles are very cheap copmpared to Stalock fittings.

 

[donncha]

Don't suppose you have had a look at this:

http://www.ormiston-wire.co.uk/pdf/OrmistonSplicer.pdf

I am considering getting one myself but I am having trouble finding them for sale online. Also it looks like it wouldn't do my rigging wire anyway, it only goes up to 4mm, I have 6mm.

 

[mainmarine]

On 4mm wire you will need two ferrules on each splice.

 

[graham]

Thanks for the replies/advice.I dont think it goes above 4 mm unfortunately so will have to use norseman or staylock for the uppers/forestay.

 

[Roberto]

I have one based on a similar principle though not ormiston, the jaws have dies for 5 and 6mm wire but 5mm is very difficult (I sheared the bolts and had to replace them with stronger ones), I never tried 6mm and honestly do not think would succeed (or I would not trust the final result anyway /forums/images/graemlins/ooo.gif ), the torque to be applied event with thin thread bolts is quite high

I used it for several things: guardwires, pushpit closing wires, dipole antenna, staysail and storm jib pennants, etc and not lastly to crimp the bigger electrical wire lugs (10/25/50 sqmm); given the price of professional Nicopress crimping (at least here), one-two projects and they have repaid themselves, plus it is a useful bit of kit to have on board

 

[Gin]

My Ormiston goes up to 4mm and whilst I haven't used it much since disposing of my Flying Fifteen, I wouldn't be without it as it was most useful and I'm thinking ahead about guardwires.

It is a little fiddly to initially nip up the terminal, whilst holding the tool and tightening the nuts with the other hand but it's no real problem.

It is a comparitively expensive tool for such a simple device

 

[Black Sheep]

I bought one from Gael Force to replace the standing rigging on my 18-footer.

Quite slow to operate, but that's OK for first time use, as you'll be taking your time making sure the lengths are right anyway. With practice, very professional looking joins that I've got some confidence in.

If you're inclined to do-it-yourself rather than getting a rigger in, then definitely recommended. The £40 for the tool plus pennies for the ferrules pays back quickly. And helps you decide whether to pay big money for a larger device for bigger wire.

Also small enough to keep on the boat just in case.

Specific tip? Measure several times before each cut. And practice a few times.