85 vette-large ground cable ?
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
85 vette-large ground cable ?
I just bought a 85 car, low miles ,it sat for 5 years .There is a large gauge black wire disconnected by the bolts that hold the starter to car. Any idea why this cable would be disconnected and what it does. Also the dash does not light up at all, and neither do any info panels or heat and air controls . I replaced the fuel and water pumps , car starts and runs very well now . Any idea as to what that cable is or does ?- Thanks,Mike
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 6,518
Likes: 1,304
From: Windermere FL
I am thinking that is a ground strap that ties the engine to the frame - or to the battery negative terminal. Without a good ground, a lot of electrical stuff may not work.
I do not have the field service manual for an 85, but it is the best investment you can make as a new owner. Wiring stuff is next to impossible to figure out without it.
I do not have the field service manual for an 85, but it is the best investment you can make as a new owner. Wiring stuff is next to impossible to figure out without it.
Race Director
Joined: Jun 1999
Posts: 14,924
Likes: 9
From: Merritt Ils Fl
On the 85 the negative battery cable is attached to the engine at the upper right transmission to engine bolt. Obviously the starter cable runs from the battery to the starter. Grounds are distributed from the engine to the frame by braided copper attached above the oil temp sender. OP, I suggest you start at the battery tracing each cable to where it terminates. Both Cliff and Red are correct especially about the FSM. NO, neither Haynes or Chilton will cut it here spring for the FSM if you plan to keep the car.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 4,426
Likes: 229
From: Pennsylvania
On the 85 the negative battery cable is attached to the engine at the upper right transmission to engine bolt. Obviously the starter cable runs from the battery to the starter. Grounds are distributed from the engine to the frame by braided copper attached above the oil temp sender. OP, I suggest you start at the battery tracing each cable to where it terminates. Both Cliff and Red are correct especially about the FSM. NO, neither Haynes or Chilton will cut it here spring for the FSM if you plan to keep the car.
