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Battery to starter cable size?

Old 03-21-2017, 11:43 AM
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SteveG75
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Default Battery to starter cable size?

Does any know what gauge the battery-starter cable size is? I am trying to diagnose some starting issues and may be having an issue with voltage drop.

I have already replaced that cable once in the past. The new cable is the generic C3 cable from Zip that has the extra positive lead. I also replaced the battery-ground cable as well at that time.

Right now, I am putting a power distribution terminal near the starter and installing a 1/0 gauge wire from that to the starter. I broke the terminal on the stock battery-starter wire so it will be replaced and connected to the distribution terminal. I am also considering replacing the block-ground wire and maybe adding another.

Nice thing is that I live close to a West Marine and can get nice 1/0 (or bigger wires) for about $7 a foot. However, not sure I want to deal with replacing the whole long battery-starter cable if I don't have to.

Last edited by SteveG75; 03-21-2017 at 11:44 AM.
Old 03-21-2017, 12:41 PM
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69Vett
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Replace the main cable, most likely corroded on the inside, especially at the ends.
also replace the ground to the battery cable, and the engine ground battery cable.
no extra grounds required.
Old 03-21-2017, 12:54 PM
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SteveG75
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Originally Posted by 69Vett
Replace the main cable, most likely corroded on the inside, especially at the ends.
also replace the ground to the battery cable, and the engine ground battery cable.
no extra grounds required.
That is what I figured. Any downside to getting ones fabricated vice waiting and paying $$$ for ones from a Corvette parts place?
Old 03-21-2017, 02:59 PM
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bigger, better wire, no negative of making good battery cables local.
I think the main cable is app. 108" I make my own.
Suggest use correct color wire, it avoids confusion.
I believe I used #0 gauge wire.

Last edited by 69Vett; 03-21-2017 at 03:06 PM.
Old 03-21-2017, 03:08 PM
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Alan 71
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Hi Steve,
The original cable running from the battery to the starter is gauge 2.
Regards,
Alan
Old 03-21-2017, 07:06 PM
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Old 03-21-2017, 08:14 PM
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Peterbuilt
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Hi Steve,
WOW! I have a different length and size.
Maybe you should match the new with the old.


Old 03-21-2017, 10:32 PM
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SteveG75
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Positive was closer to 8 feet. Got the negative cables in tonight, going to work on the positive tomorrow.

Replaced both battery cables and the block grounding cable with 1/0 gauge wire. I also added a positive power stud at the bottom of he passenger door well. This will be where I hook up all the other 12v power leads in the engine compartment (stock + MSD + fans). I have one more 1/0 positive wire from the stud to the starter. Fuel pump and XFI computer are hooked to the battery.

Hopefully, this will reduce the voltage drop on start which is causing spurious signals to the EFI, resulting in an ignition pulse at the wrong time, resulting in a kickback. Couple of ring gear teeth look chipped but I will see if this solves the problem so I don't have to replace the flywheel. Also have new plugs and distributor rotor cap going in as well.

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