battery strap connection - options?
 

when our son got home with the GC,
we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -

In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -

Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.

As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)

Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.

Not sure of the remedy on this....
There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
inside the strap connector,
and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".

SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion, then
there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are many
chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning battery
connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush will
be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if maybe
the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are in
need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware stores
electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate it
very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical box,
use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the whole
cable?

P.Schuman wrote:
>when our son got home with the GC,
>we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
>In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
>Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
>as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
>So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
>As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
>They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
>and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
>(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
>Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
>hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
>Not sure of the remedy on this....
>There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
>inside the strap connector,
>and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
>SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion, then
there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are many
chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning battery
connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush will
be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if maybe
the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are in
need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware stores
electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate it
very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical box,
use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the whole
cable?

P.Schuman wrote:
>when our son got home with the GC,
>we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
>In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
>Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
>as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
>So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
>As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
>They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
>and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
>(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
>Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
>hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
>Not sure of the remedy on this....
>There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
>inside the strap connector,
>and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
>SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion, then
there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are many
chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning battery
connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush will
be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if maybe
the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are in
need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware stores
electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate it
very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical box,
use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the whole
cable?

P.Schuman wrote:
>when our son got home with the GC,
>we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
>In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
>Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
>as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
>So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
>As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
>They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
>and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
>(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
>Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
>hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
>Not sure of the remedy on this....
>There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
>inside the strap connector,
>and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
>SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion, then
there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are many
chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning battery
connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush will
be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if maybe
the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are in
need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware stores
electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate it
very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical box,
use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the whole
cable?

P.Schuman wrote:
>when our son got home with the GC,
>we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
>In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
>Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
>as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
>So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
>As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
>They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
>and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
>(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
>Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
>hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
>Not sure of the remedy on this....
>There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
>inside the strap connector,
>and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
>SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Agreed, replace the whole cable. They are cheaper than a tow truck service
call.

Cheers,

Earle

"RiverRunner66 via CarKB.com" <u36930@uwe> wrote in message
news:794d80e4e2080@uwe...
> I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
> there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion,
then
> there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are
many
> chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning
battery
> connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
> water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
> work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush
will
> be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
> about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if
maybe
> the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are
in
> need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware
stores
> electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate
it
> very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
> anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
> terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical
box,
> use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
> connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the
whole
> cable?
>
> P.Schuman wrote:
> >when our son got home with the GC,
> >we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> >with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
> >
> >In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
> >
> >Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> >as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> >So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
> >
> >As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> >They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> >and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> >(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on
each side)
> >
> >Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> >hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
> >
> >Not sure of the remedy on this....
> >There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> >inside the strap connector,
> >and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
> >
> >SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> >and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
> --
> Message posted via CarKB.com
> http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Agreed, replace the whole cable. They are cheaper than a tow truck service
call.

Cheers,

Earle

"RiverRunner66 via CarKB.com" <u36930@uwe> wrote in message
news:794d80e4e2080@uwe...
> I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
> there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion,
then
> there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are
many
> chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning
battery
> connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
> water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
> work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush
will
> be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
> about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if
maybe
> the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are
in
> need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware
stores
> electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate
it
> very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
> anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
> terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical
box,
> use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
> connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the
whole
> cable?
>
> P.Schuman wrote:
> >when our son got home with the GC,
> >we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> >with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
> >
> >In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
> >
> >Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> >as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> >So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
> >
> >As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> >They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> >and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> >(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on
each side)
> >
> >Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> >hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
> >
> >Not sure of the remedy on this....
> >There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> >inside the strap connector,
> >and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
> >
> >SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> >and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
> --
> Message posted via CarKB.com
> http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Agreed, replace the whole cable. They are cheaper than a tow truck service
call.

Cheers,

Earle

"RiverRunner66 via CarKB.com" <u36930@uwe> wrote in message
news:794d80e4e2080@uwe...
> I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
> there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion,
then
> there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are
many
> chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning
battery
> connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
> water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
> work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush
will
> be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
> about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if
maybe
> the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are
in
> need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware
stores
> electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate
it
> very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
> anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
> terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical
box,
> use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
> connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the
whole
> cable?
>
> P.Schuman wrote:
> >when our son got home with the GC,
> >we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> >with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
> >
> >In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
> >
> >Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> >as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> >So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
> >
> >As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> >They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> >and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> >(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on
each side)
> >
> >Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> >hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
> >
> >Not sure of the remedy on this....
> >There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> >inside the strap connector,
> >and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
> >
> >SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> >and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
> --
> Message posted via CarKB.com
> http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Agreed, replace the whole cable. They are cheaper than a tow truck service
call.

Cheers,

Earle

"RiverRunner66 via CarKB.com" <u36930@uwe> wrote in message
news:794d80e4e2080@uwe...
> I'm not sure what you mean by tarnished. if it is simply discolored, then
> there should be no problem. if there is a white build up of corrosion,
then
> there is a problem. and is a symptom of a leaking battery. There are
many
> chemical cleaners available from local auto parts stores for cleaning
battery
> connectors, and even protective coating sprays available. Baking soda and
> water as well as coca cola work too, although they take a little longer to
> work. Usually a day. Baking soda neutralizes the acid. A wire brush
will
> be required. If it is the white fluffy corrision, then you need to think
> about replacing your battery, because it is leaking. It sounds as if
maybe
> the wires settled a little bit, and needs to be retightened. If you are
in
> need of connecting two "cables" together, then try the local hardware
stores
> electrical section. Sure you can find something, just be sure to insulate
it
> very well. You'll have to be a little creative,because I'm not aware of
> anything specifically designed for that. you might create some sort of
> terminal block, and add to it. I've know of people to use a electrical
box,
> use the knockout holes to run wire through, and use a bolt inside it to
> connect all the cables together. Might just be easier to replace the
whole
> cable?
>
> P.Schuman wrote:
> >when our son got home with the GC,
> >we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> >with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
> >
> >In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
> >
> >Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> >as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> >So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
> >
> >As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> >They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> >and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> >(the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on
each side)
> >
> >Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> >hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
> >
> >Not sure of the remedy on this....
> >There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> >inside the strap connector,
> >and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
> >
> >SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> >and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
> --
> Message posted via CarKB.com
> http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.

For our 2001 GC,
it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
with one maybe just going down to the frame,
but not sure where the other goes.
I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.

For our 2001 GC,
it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
with one maybe just going down to the frame,
but not sure where the other goes.
I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.

For our 2001 GC,
it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
with one maybe just going down to the frame,
but not sure where the other goes.
I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.

For our 2001 GC,
it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
with one maybe just going down to the frame,
but not sure where the other goes.
I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

if its just discolored don't worry about it. copper does that, and will
actually turn a greenish color over time. also, to clean copper, if you get
a good solder paste flux, and dip it in that, let it sit for 10-20 min and
rinse it off real good, it will clean it right up. I really wouldn't worry
about it and just tighten it, and then double check it in a few days, maybe
retighten again.

P.Schuman wrote:
>the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.
>
>For our 2001 GC,
>it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
>with one maybe just going down to the frame,
>but not sure where the other goes.
>I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
>and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

if its just discolored don't worry about it. copper does that, and will
actually turn a greenish color over time. also, to clean copper, if you get
a good solder paste flux, and dip it in that, let it sit for 10-20 min and
rinse it off real good, it will clean it right up. I really wouldn't worry
about it and just tighten it, and then double check it in a few days, maybe
retighten again.

P.Schuman wrote:
>the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.
>
>For our 2001 GC,
>it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
>with one maybe just going down to the frame,
>but not sure where the other goes.
>I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
>and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

if its just discolored don't worry about it. copper does that, and will
actually turn a greenish color over time. also, to clean copper, if you get
a good solder paste flux, and dip it in that, let it sit for 10-20 min and
rinse it off real good, it will clean it right up. I really wouldn't worry
about it and just tighten it, and then double check it in a few days, maybe
retighten again.

P.Schuman wrote:
>the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.
>
>For our 2001 GC,
>it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
>with one maybe just going down to the frame,
>but not sure where the other goes.
>I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
>and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

if its just discolored don't worry about it. copper does that, and will
actually turn a greenish color over time. also, to clean copper, if you get
a good solder paste flux, and dip it in that, let it sit for 10-20 min and
rinse it off real good, it will clean it right up. I really wouldn't worry
about it and just tighten it, and then double check it in a few days, maybe
retighten again.

P.Schuman wrote:
>the copper is just the usual discoloration - no white powder.
>
>For our 2001 GC,
>it appears there are 2 black (negative) cables in the bundle,
>with one maybe just going down to the frame,
>but not sure where the other goes.
>I did tighten both lockdown screws on the clamp, and all is well - for now -
>and I may go look for another clamp/strap connector to try again.

--
Message posted via CarKB.com
http://www.carkb.com/Uwe/Forums.aspx/jeep-cars/200710/1

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
quality or strength ones including brass ones.

If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

P.Schuman wrote:
> when our son got home with the GC,
> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
> In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
> Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
> As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> (the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
> Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
> Not sure of the remedy on this....
> There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> inside the strap connector,
> and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
>
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
quality or strength ones including brass ones.

If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

P.Schuman wrote:
> when our son got home with the GC,
> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
> In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
> Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
> As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> (the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
> Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
> Not sure of the remedy on this....
> There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> inside the strap connector,
> and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
>
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
quality or strength ones including brass ones.

If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

P.Schuman wrote:
> when our son got home with the GC,
> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
> In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
> Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
> As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> (the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
> Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
> Not sure of the remedy on this....
> There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> inside the strap connector,
> and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
>
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
quality or strength ones including brass ones.

If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)

P.Schuman wrote:
> when our son got home with the GC,
> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
> with the tailgate - like a simple fuse -
>
> In doing so - we stumbled across another challenge - NO power -
>
> Awhile ago, we had lost electric power while driving,
> as the dashboard was flickering and the volts was like ZERO.
> So - we drove directly to the local dealer thinking the worst.
>
> As it turned out, the negative battery connector was cracked.
> They snipped off the molded connector, stripped the 2 large wires,
> and replaced it with a screw down saddle connector,
> (the wires go in and there is a strap across them that screws down on each side)
>
> Well - today - the wires were a little loose,
> hence the loss of total DC electrical power while we were poking around.
>
> Not sure of the remedy on this....
> There is 1/2" of copper (now tarnished)
> inside the strap connector,
> and another 1/2" of insulation until the large wrapped "bundle".
>
> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?
>
>
>

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I think you need to change grease manufacturers. If your using dielectric
grease and you still need to clean them every two years then somethings
obviously wrong with your grease, because thats is entirely what its purpose
is....to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

Mike Romain wrote:
>Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
>service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
>quality or strength ones including brass ones.
>
>If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
>drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
>and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.
>
>Mike
>86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
>Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
>Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
>(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)
>
>> when our son got home with the GC,
>> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via http://www.carkb.com

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I think you need to change grease manufacturers. If your using dielectric
grease and you still need to clean them every two years then somethings
obviously wrong with your grease, because thats is entirely what its purpose
is....to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

Mike Romain wrote:
>Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
>service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
>quality or strength ones including brass ones.
>
>If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
>drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
>and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.
>
>Mike
>86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
>Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
>Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
>(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)
>
>> when our son got home with the GC,
>> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via http://www.carkb.com

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I think you need to change grease manufacturers. If your using dielectric
grease and you still need to clean them every two years then somethings
obviously wrong with your grease, because thats is entirely what its purpose
is....to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

Mike Romain wrote:
>Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
>service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
>quality or strength ones including brass ones.
>
>If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
>drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
>and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.
>
>Mike
>86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
>Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
>Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
>(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)
>
>> when our son got home with the GC,
>> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via http://www.carkb.com

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

I think you need to change grease manufacturers. If your using dielectric
grease and you still need to clean them every two years then somethings
obviously wrong with your grease, because thats is entirely what its purpose
is....to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

Mike Romain wrote:
>Those saddle clamps are only good for about a year before they need
>service, even with dielectric grease on them. They make different
>quality or strength ones including brass ones.
>
>If I leave mine for two years, I get a failure. I use a wire brush on a
>drill to polish back up the copper cable strands, then I re-twist them
>and coat them with dielectric grease again once clamped down.
>
>Mike
>86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
>88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
>Canadian Off Road Trips Photos: Non members can still view!
>Jan/06 http://www.imagestation.com/album/pi...?id=2115147590
>(More Off Road album links at bottom of the view page)
>
>> when our son got home with the GC,
>> we went looking around for any cause for our recent problems
>[quoted text clipped - 21 lines]
>> SO - any suggestions on how to clean up the existing 1/2" copper
>> and use the same type or different connector to get a really solid grip ?

--
Message posted via http://www.carkb.com

Re: battery wire connection - options?
 

the overall problem is having 2x cables,
plus, with them snipped at the old molded connector,
which makes them a tad short,
there might be some mechanical leverage
of the "bundle" pulling down on the connection.

tnx for the discussion -
I'll look around at the auto parts store for another clamp connector
before I go back and really trust it...

Re: battery wire connection - options?
 

the overall problem is having 2x cables,
plus, with them snipped at the old molded connector,
which makes them a tad short,
there might be some mechanical leverage
of the "bundle" pulling down on the connection.

tnx for the discussion -
I'll look around at the auto parts store for another clamp connector
before I go back and really trust it...

Re: battery wire connection - options?
 

the overall problem is having 2x cables,
plus, with them snipped at the old molded connector,
which makes them a tad short,
there might be some mechanical leverage
of the "bundle" pulling down on the connection.

tnx for the discussion -
I'll look around at the auto parts store for another clamp connector
before I go back and really trust it...

Re: battery wire connection - options?
 

the overall problem is having 2x cables,
plus, with them snipped at the old molded connector,
which makes them a tad short,
there might be some mechanical leverage
of the "bundle" pulling down on the connection.

tnx for the discussion -
I'll look around at the auto parts store for another clamp connector
before I go back and really trust it...

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

BEFORE you go replacing the negative battery cable.. call the dealer
and ask them how much the starter altenator harness is. Oh, I
recommend having a dephibulator handy, you might need it.


Yes he will need the harness, due to one of those negative wires
actualy splits of and runs to the funny "block" connector on the back
of the altenator, and the other split runs to the block. (just below
the coil) .

I just had a simular problem with the wifeys 93ZJ, when the altenator
failed. I ended up having to splice the negative wires together (pain
in the $#%).

I would suggest buying a solder on battery clamp, and use some good
quality rosen core solder with a blow torch and solder a new clamp on
the cables.

Snow...
93 ZJ
89 Caprice Waggy.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

BEFORE you go replacing the negative battery cable.. call the dealer
and ask them how much the starter altenator harness is. Oh, I
recommend having a dephibulator handy, you might need it.


Yes he will need the harness, due to one of those negative wires
actualy splits of and runs to the funny "block" connector on the back
of the altenator, and the other split runs to the block. (just below
the coil) .

I just had a simular problem with the wifeys 93ZJ, when the altenator
failed. I ended up having to splice the negative wires together (pain
in the $#%).

I would suggest buying a solder on battery clamp, and use some good
quality rosen core solder with a blow torch and solder a new clamp on
the cables.

Snow...
93 ZJ
89 Caprice Waggy.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

BEFORE you go replacing the negative battery cable.. call the dealer
and ask them how much the starter altenator harness is. Oh, I
recommend having a dephibulator handy, you might need it.


Yes he will need the harness, due to one of those negative wires
actualy splits of and runs to the funny "block" connector on the back
of the altenator, and the other split runs to the block. (just below
the coil) .

I just had a simular problem with the wifeys 93ZJ, when the altenator
failed. I ended up having to splice the negative wires together (pain
in the $#%).

I would suggest buying a solder on battery clamp, and use some good
quality rosen core solder with a blow torch and solder a new clamp on
the cables.

Snow...
93 ZJ
89 Caprice Waggy.

Re: battery strap connection - options?
 

BEFORE you go replacing the negative battery cable.. call the dealer
and ask them how much the starter altenator harness is. Oh, I
recommend having a dephibulator handy, you might need it.


Yes he will need the harness, due to one of those negative wires
actualy splits of and runs to the funny "block" connector on the back
of the altenator, and the other split runs to the block. (just below
the coil) .

I just had a simular problem with the wifeys 93ZJ, when the altenator
failed. I ended up having to splice the negative wires together (pain
in the $#%).

I would suggest buying a solder on battery clamp, and use some good
quality rosen core solder with a blow torch and solder a new clamp on
the cables.

Snow...
93 ZJ
89 Caprice Waggy.