Technical Battery cables length

[jota69]

I have to replace the battery cables from my 500F and I was wondering if anyone knows the length of the cables, also I would like to know if the positive is a one piece cable that goes all the way to the starter or is there a junction somewhere. Thanks

 

[disgusted]

That's a really good question jota69.

I don't know the answer, but I want to do this too. my cables look decidedly dodgy.

I also want to have a battery isolator switch fitted near the battery for when the car is left for longer periods...

 

[RogerNZ]

Hi guys, I have mine out of the car at he moment so will measure tomorrow and let you know. Positive is one piece as far as I recall. More soon.
Cheers Roger

 

[the hobbler]

Hi D-of-T;
I agree with you, an isolater is a good idea; mine (fitted by a previous owner) is situated neatly under the passenger side of the dash. It fits 'through' the bulkhead so that the cables and terminals are still in the front/tank area and only the 'switching' part is in the passenger cable---very easy to reach before you leave the car.

 

[Bambino]

The old one I have (500F) is 2550mm long including end connectors and is one piece.
I have to agree that an isolator is a great idea. Mine is on the battery -ve terminal, not particularly convenient but as my car is a bit of a garage queen, useful none the less.
Chris

 

[RogerNZ]

Just measured one from a D and one from a 126, both are 2550. So, if you'll excuse the pun "Roger that Chris!"

 

[littlemouse]

The old one I have (500F) is 2550mm long including end connectors and is one piece.
I have to agree that an isolator is a great idea. Mine is on the battery -ve terminal, not particularly convenient but as my car is a bit of a garage queen, useful none the less.
Chris

Used a Lucas type isolator on mine, fitted it just under the dash and its also good for security as its not obvious

 

[JakeF]

The isolator is a good idea. People who have fitted this, if a picture please show where it is mounted and how?

 

[Paolo66]

I want to change mine when I've got engine/gearbox out. A picture and description of how you fit the isolator would be a great help. Also my negative lead is currently connected to body work by being crimped in a piece of metal attached to the bodywork. Could I get away with attaching a new one with a nut and bolt assuming its against bare metal and not paint?

 

[littlemouse]

The lucas isolator is dead easy to fit, you will need to get a new length of black battery cable made up which goes from negative side of battery to switch and then another cable from switch to the original earth point of old earth lead on bodywork, i will get a photo on here tomorrow

The isolators are available on ebay as well

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lucas-Sty...arts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item1c2e2a68ac

 

[littlemouse]

I want to change mine when I've got engine/gearbox out. A picture and description of how you fit the isolator would be a great help. Also my negative lead is currently connected to body work by being crimped in a piece of metal attached to the bodywork. Could I get away with attaching a new one with a nut and bolt assuming its against bare metal and not paint?

You can get cables made up properly with crimped lugs, if you dont have a car electrical specialist nearby you can also order online or checkout ebay

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/UP-TO-152...arts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM&hash=item33805f4a4c

 

[littlemouse]

Here is the way i have installed the Lucas isolator

 

[JakeF]

Hi,

What is the thickness of the positive battery wire? Is it given in mm2 or?


thanks!

 

[Bambino]

Jake,
Mine are about 8.63mm in diameter (~58.5 mm2)
Chris

 

[JakeF]

Thank you

 

[disgusted]

Battery isolator switch installed on the -ve battery terminal.

Tools required = 1 spanner.

Time taken = 20 mins finding the spanner + 2 mins to fit.

Rubber +ve terminal cover also fitted.

Total cost of components = £8. Procured from local auto electrician.