20 pin atx removal possible without the tool?

[imported_bushman]

I'm sleeving my psu, and the kit I bought didn't come with a atx pin removal tool. I think someone mentioned there was a way to do it without a tool but I forgot. Are there other ways?

 

[lenjack]

You can do it with a tiny pointed probe or slotted screwdriver, but it's tough. Why not get the tool? It's not expensive, even at Radioshack.

 

[JasonSix78]

What exactly is the part number or correct name for the 20-pin connector tool? I'm sleeving my PSU as well. I went to Radioshack today and bought the molex removal tool and thought it would fit the 20-pin too......until I got home, d'oh. I've got everything done except the 20-pin. That info would be much appreciated!

-Jason

 

[Zepper]

http://www.Jab-tech.com carries them at the best price I know of. But the cheapest ones they carry are actually modified molex (drive connector) tools and are pretty flimsy - so you've got to be very careful using them. They also have better tools for a lot more money. The "official" molex ATX contact removal tool costs about $25.
.bh.

 

[fireontheway]

Someone posted a link recently about sleeving the ATX cable without removing the wires.

 

[Zepper]

Yes, a lot of folks are using wire loom that you can get from the larger auto parts stores and departments. It's a spiral wrap rather than a fabric sleeve. Does a fine job - looks good and often costs less. But I don't think it comes in UV reactive types.

.bh.

 

[MrControversial]

Originally posted by: bushman
I'm sleeving my psu, and the kit I bought didn't come with a atx pin removal tool. I think someone mentioned there was a way to do it without a tool but I forgot. Are there other ways?

Even with the 20 pin removal tool removing the pins isn't 100 percent because of bad crimps and/or varying wire gauges. I bought the Case Arts PSU modding kit that comes with everything needed and I still had to end up cutting and re-crimping three wires from the 20-pin connector. However, the tool makes it a bit easier. Just don't get the cheap ones because they have a tendency to break off at the tips. Some people take the lazy approach and just fold the connector long ways and force the sleeving over it. However, this does nothing if you want to put on fancier molexes or heat shrink. If you have respectable crimping skills, you can just purchase a 20 pack of gold-plated connectors (or two, in case you screw up) and a crimping tool and cut the wires and recrimp them.