Battery Cables

[wakebrd21]

So I've determined that I need to replace the battery cables in my boat (97 Sport GT40). Does anybody know where I should get these from and how long they need to be and what gauge they should be? I'm trying not to take out the current ones before I go to switch them out.

Any help would be great.

[xrichard]

I use http://genuinedealz.com/

Good prices, good product...and they'll make up cables and terminations custom to your spec.

I don't know gauge, but the existing cables should be marked. And I can't help on length.

[CradGen2]

I wouldn't take out the old until you have the new. You can use the old to pull the new cables in the hull. It will make it easier. Any NAPA will be able to sell you the cable be the foot. You can buy bolt on ends or if you have access to a wire crimper crimp your own. Also you might be able to buy a cheap crimper that you hit with a hammer. I don't like them, but could be an option.

[DanielC]

I have put new terminals on the cables that came with the boat. I get the crimp on terminal ends, and put them cable end up in a vice. Then I melt some solder into the cup, about 1/3 to 1/2 full, using a propane torch. Put a little bit of soldering rosin on the stripped end of the cable, and when the solder in the hot, put the cable into the terminal. Do this quickly, in one motion, and hold the cable still until the solder solidifys. Then put some heat shrink over the cable, and terminal. use the heavy duty heat shrink that has adhesive inside the tube.

[Chexi]

Will you be able to get the shrink tubing around the terminal? If not, be sure to thread the cable through it first, keep it out of the way during the soldering process, and slide down once the solder sets. I have made this mistake before.

[DanielC]

Chexi, I have also forgotten the heat shrink first. I have also occasionally launched a boat without the plug in.

Here is a picture of the battery end of a cable I made.