Battery wiring upgrade cable?
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Feb 2023
Posts: 1,924
Likes: 817
Hotshot
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 17,828
Likes: 3,113
From: Jersey Shore
While red and black are the universal color codes for starter and main cables in most applications. When you find a discounted cable or wire of any color for a good price, you can wrap the wire or cable at the termination with a tape of the standardized color. This is done all the time in residential and commercial work. I've got the red, black, white, and yellow tape in the "electrical" toolbox whenever needed.
I typically buy marine tinned copper wire for all my automotive work. I used to do some side work re-wiring boats (New Jersey Shore), which the US Coast Guard requires. No one wants a boat fire, especially out at sea. It's great wire, typically with a higher strand count, so it's not as stiff. The insulation temperature is a little lower than specified for the underhood, but I feel it is a reasonable temperature, especially since the wire won't develop the greenies.
I typically bought wire in bulk when I found it at a good price for the work I used to do. Marine grade can be an expensive wire.
I typically buy marine tinned copper wire for all my automotive work. I used to do some side work re-wiring boats (New Jersey Shore), which the US Coast Guard requires. No one wants a boat fire, especially out at sea. It's great wire, typically with a higher strand count, so it's not as stiff. The insulation temperature is a little lower than specified for the underhood, but I feel it is a reasonable temperature, especially since the wire won't develop the greenies.
I typically bought wire in bulk when I found it at a good price for the work I used to do. Marine grade can be an expensive wire.
Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 2,376
Likes: 993
From: Chambersburg, PA
I was gonna mention the copper clad aluminum wire but y’all beat me to it. Honestly that stuff looks like something someone might try to use to hook up an amp for a sub in the back of a cheap civic. I’d stay away from that. I second the marine wire. Very corrosion resistant. But as long as you heat shrink the ends and use a terminal protectant you’ll have no problem with copper for many years.
Cargo Master
Joined: Nov 2015
Posts: 3,422
Likes: 938
From: Fort Worth, TX
Greg's Marine makes it really easy to order wire of specific lengths and an array of terminals and options for waterproof heat shrink too. Ordering from them, you could save 50% for a cable set like FICM Repair sells. Don't ask me how I know.
https://gregsmarinewiresupply.com/pr...m-made-cables/
https://gregsmarinewiresupply.com/pr...m-made-cables/
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Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2004
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That is a great option, but you can still make them cheaper if you have the crimping tool and a little time. The FICMrepair cables are a complete ripoff, but a great option if you're the bolt it up and go guy.
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 2,332
Likes: 442
From: Eastern Washington
I use polar wire for most of my wiring. You would be shocked at how nice this stuff is.
It's a bit more money, but sooo much nicer than the garbage you'll find a the local parts store.
Artic Ultraflex
It's a bit more money, but sooo much nicer than the garbage you'll find a the local parts store.
Artic Ultraflex
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