Topic: Wiring quickie

[greenjeans]

Wiring up a 1970 CB750.  Modified wiring harness.

For the small braided wire that goes from the + battery terminal to the solenoid.  It's braided. 
I have to use something about 2 inches longer.  6 or 8 gauge copper wire (instead of the braid) would be fine wouldn't it?  What's the purpose of the braided wire vs copper strand?

[pmanning]

The braided wire is also more flexible, therefore easier to work through the tight spaces around the battery box and components.  Stranded copper is a lot stiffer.  If you are near an electric motor repair shop they are often a good source for braided copper conductor.

[Bodi]

Welding cable is very flexible but has thick insulation, no need for any insulation on the ground wire as long as it doesn't cross near the + terminal or any open + terminals. Car stereo shops usually have "wet noodle" superflex large gauge wire. Normal "house" stranded cable in 6ga or 8ga will be incredibly stiff, and prone to work hardening and breaking from normal maintenance and normal vibration.