For soldering nipples,

http://www.flanderscables.com/

sells tools, including an electric dip solderer.

I'm told an iron end cap from the plumbers' supplies shop, heated with
fire can do the same job.
Not tried it myself - I'm still using the soldering iron.

Jordan

Derek wrote:
Are there any simple/cheap ways to solder or crimp ends onto light
duty (say bicycle derailers) cable?