Topic: Recommends on battery leads

[eigenvector]

For a CB550K, what is the recommended way to replace the battery cables?  The originals that I have are beyond use.  The terminal ends are worn and oversized so that a good solid negative connection is no longer possible. 

Given that, I'd like to replace it, but I'm at a loss as to what to use for material.   Whether it'd be easier to send it to a specialist to build, or is this something I could do myself.  It's my understanding that terminals for wires over a certain gauge require a special tool to properly crimp.

Lastly, can you relocate where the negative lead grounds to the frame?  The current attach point is definitely in a strange location - tucked in there under the air plenum I think.

[calj737]

The frame ground should be heading to the right rear, upper hangar bracket pinched between the bracket and the frame.

I don't know if the factory ground wire is 6, 8 or 10AWG. Trick is to get a ring terminal that has the ring opening for the motor hangar bolt 10mm and crimp to the ground lead. Most terminal ends for 6-8AWG request a crimping tool, but you can do it with other tools. You can also go to the auto parts store and they can crimp it for you on both ends to fit the battery post and the bolt/ring end.

I think I used 10AWG on my recent re-wire. Tinned the wire. Crimped it. Soldered it. Solid.

[eigenvector]

Didn't think of taking it to an auto store for the crimping.  I can do that.  Might as well do it properly, rather that resort to hammer and chisel.

[70CB750]

I made many cables using these lugs, torch and solder. Strip the end of the cable, apply flux, melt a pudle of solder inside the lug and push the cable end in it. Once it cools you have a cable that will outlive you.

Cables made like this are used for off road winching where lot of Amps moves through it.  Your local TSC should carry these lugs.

http://www.elecdirect.com/catalog/wire-lugs-splices/unplated-copper-lugs

[dave500]

slightly oversize the cable aswell while your at it,so long as it doesent interfere at the battery or solenoid ends.

[70CB750]

slightly oversize the cable aswell while your at it,so long as it doesent interfere at the battery or solenoid ends.

Ha, that´s why I started to make my own in the first place, I wanted bigger cables.

[eigenvector]

I will say that the cables aren't particularly large.

Okay, I have some options then.  Thanks all.