How important is the braided ground strap by the driver side header?
 

You know that braided grounding strap that runs from the block to the frame. Its a 14 or 15 mm bolt on the block and i think 10 mm nut on the frame. I noticed ita fubared and the bottom half got ripped out. I know there are some grounds that are a must. But something like that that just goes to the block and frame with no electrical connections how bad is it needes and what issuea can it cause without it? Do they sell replacement straps? What's the length on it? Thanks

Grounding straps are essential in ALL newer electronic cars, as are clean connections. Missing/poor grounds can cause all sorts of weird issues and the engine-frame connections are essential pathways for circuits that serve more than poor radio sound. Those straps are neither expensive nor tough to replace.

GM, like all manufactures, shave all costs with great passion. If they could do without it, they would.

Haha i do care I was just wondering..that may explain some issues. The car has been down for over a year so im juat looking into all the issues to fix. Anyone know where I can get that ground strap?

Did you try Marc at vettenuts.net?

I call the AutoZone and they have one. P/n 60213

Also how do the coils come into play when the only thing I see grounded is the strap and another lead for the oil pressure sender? Im juat asking for info not being a smart ass.


https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.cor...244563528e.jpg

The coils are grounded to the engine. The battery is grounded to the chassis. There needs to be a connection from the engine to the chassis to complete the circuit. Also the alternator is grounded to the engine. It needs a return path to the battery.

On my bmw I had a frayed engine to chassis ground and lost 0.5V on the engine. This can be a serious problem if not connected well.

I had a audio installer build one for me. High end stereos need a strong connection here. The installers customize these all the time. ie 0 gauge for higher current demand.

Thank you all!!!:thumbs::cheers: