I am trying to wire up my PWS loom and some or the wires I need to connect are quite thick (from ignition barrel) ... trying to solder join them but the butane gas soldering iron is pretty pants and can't get the wires hot enough to melt the solder !!!!!

What electric iron would you recommend ... what wattage??

The alternative is to crimp everything I suppose.

if your gas solder don't work then you have a micky mouse one
I used to work on site and soldered all sorts up to battery cable
get your self a portasol super pro . will go up to about 200 watts .
and get the kit with selection of tips.
cant recommend them enough and no cables to get in the way when working under a dash

[Edited on 16/6/15 by bart]

I solder a lot of looms but for the bigger stuff like the ignition switch ect I prefer glue lined heat shrink crimps.

after having a few real cheapies bought this
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Soldering-iron-HP40-from-Antex-SP82270-/321770851220?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item4aeb098b94

It seems to do most stuff (obviously not battery cables!) and although not as "good" as the yellow versions, for what I use it for (in the garage) it is really good to use and very reliable. Price is good too.

I have a weller gun for the big stuff, dual trigger 100/160W that's handy although over kill on smaller wires, for them a typical 40W hobby iron is good.

Pro piezo gas soldering iron. We all use them at work daily and they're great.