In article , Bert Byfield wrote:
I have never trusted stranded wire connetions. I've seen too many go
bad (mainly from corrosion over time) & cause problems. I solder. It
takes a few extra minutes, but in my view, it's always worth it.

Note, however, that the National Electrical Code requires that a
mechanical fastener (such as a wire nut) must be used _in_addition_ to
the solder. A connection made by solder alone is a Code violation.

What about electrical tape wrapped around a soldered connection? Is that a
"mechanical fastener"?

No.

It insulates the connection, at least.

That's not the point. The Code requires that the connection be mechanically
and electrically secure even _without_ the solder. You can't achieve that with
tape.

--
Regards,
Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)

Nobody ever left footprints in the sands of time by sitting on his butt.
And who wants to leave buttprints in the sands of time?