The Nicopress tool worked great, but I wasn't the only one in line to borrow them, so I looked around for a pair of my own. There are several different types of nicopress tools... the type that are capable of 3/32", 1/8", 5/32", etc. are not cheap. Somewhere in the neighborhood of $300 was not unusual, even for a used set. So I chose to try the $28 type that Home Depot sells. These are typically used for making dog runs and leads, or for fencing, but I know of others that have used these, and if properly adjusted and monitored I don't see how the end result is any different than the more expensive tools. The authentic Nicopress tool was longer (more leverage when crimping) and the finish and operation were a bit smoother, but otherwise either tool is capable of putting the squeeze on copper sleeves. Prior to making my test crimps, I referred to some information I found on the Pietenpol forums. Size - Range (Chris Bopka posted as found in EAA Aircraft Volume One File Number 6 on Aircraft Homebuilding Tips, page 34) 1/16" sleeve - .190-.195" go dimension 3/32" sleeve - .255-.265" go dimension 1/8" sleeve - .343-.353" go dimension 5/32" sleeve - .380-.390" go dimension Using the Home Depot tool straight off the shelf, my first crimp on a 1/8" cable/sleeve combo was .318" (way too tight). After a minor adjustment, my second crimp was .355" (slightly too big). Another adjustment and I was able to squeeze a .345" crimp. I grabbed another sleeve and proceeded to squeeze 3 more crimps right around .345" (+/- .0005") as measured with my calipers. In other words, plenty good and on par with the more expensive tool. Hope this helps!
Mark Chouinard Chapter 10 - Tulsa, Oklahoma Pietenpol Air Camper
