Solder vs connectors - Pros/cons

[JSMATT]

Though clearly not a Sansui-specific topic, as my non-speaker gear is essentially all Sansui, I believe this forum works.

When disconnecting boards one from another, there are some wires/ribbons that have connections. Often times ground wires have no such connectors and are simply soldered in place.

In certain situations, like the C-2102 in process now, there is a post with a wrapped wire and multiple leads soldered from the post going to various other locations. Other grounds simply appear to be soldered in a convenient spot.

Seeing there 'might' be an occasion where I screwed up (!!) or simply wish to make an update later, it seemed to me that I should add connectors to these wires. This greatly facilitates future removal.

I appreciate this is non-factory, but at least a practical approach to the situation.

Also, given that there is next to no vibration or moisture issues, as in an automotive environment, I do not see any downside to this approach, besides the extra time needed to install the connectors.

I am interested in knowing how others treat the re-connection of such wires during their work.

 

[HPMguy]

Pros:

Much easier to work on, less likelyhood of damaging board by soldering

Cons:

Far less secure connections, and the possibility then of making ground loops, etc. In rare cases smoking components due to lack of correct grounds. connectors of any sort as opposed to soldering are prone to oxidation and poor/intermittent connection, much more than solder although cracked solder joints are an issue as well, just far less common that poor push fit connections.

Accepted wisdom here, I think, is to unsolder wire wrap pins rather than undoing wire wraps. Even with the correct tool, the wire won't make contact with the pin properly.

I don't plan to work on my equipment once I refurb it, the whole point of replacing caps and other likely to fail parts is to avoid opening it up again -- at this point in my life, I suspect any good capacitor I put in will outlive me.

 

[Hyperion]

I am interested in knowing how others treat the re-connection of such wires during their work.

I have a C-2102, so I think I know where you are coming from regarding ground connections. However I would never add a connector to a ground connection, for the reasons eloquently described by @HPMguy and there would have to be a very good reason (your reason not good enough for me), for adding one anywhere else.

Usually I just remove the screw that secures the ground lug to the chassis, or remove individual wires from the ground or other connector(s) to gain the access I need.