I'm looking for some ideas on a better way to produce a Y-splice with small gauge wire (22-26 AWG).

In this case I am splicing a wire end into an existing length of wire.

My typical approach is to cut the existing wire at the desired point, strip and tin the ends. Strip the new wire, tin the end. Twist the 3 ends together and solder. Add a bit of heatshrink to cover the new joint.

This approach seems to work ok, but I wonder about the mechanical strength/durability of the joint. Especially the new wire with its clumsy exit from the heat shrink sleeve.

Any suggestions for a better Y-Splice? Are crimp options viable? I've used teleco crimp buttons in phone applications; I think they look too ugly to put into a pinball machine. I've seen butt splice crimp sleeves, but for larger gauges. Would these work for a Y-Splice?

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Thanks

So, can I just use a crimp style butt-splice and add a 3rd wire to accomplish the desired Y-Splice? Wouldn't the extra wire diameter on the "Y" end compromise the crimp connection compared with the single-wired end?

Yep, I like the idea of stripping a section of insulation without cutting, but I prefer heat shrink sleeve vs wrap, and really prefer NOT to de-pin or unsolder an end to permit me to slip on a sleeve. Sleeving the folded-over the joint does not pass my OCD test, especially when there are a "few" of these connection in close proximity

Hmm, a terminal block might actually be ideal in this backbox location. Lots of slack up there... Very tidy result.

I'll take a look at the crimped butt splice option and try a few samples.

The example was just for illustration. Its actually a BLUE wire The colors match appropriately in the 4-wire bundle I assembled last night.

Thanks!