T&T: Battery Cables

[Robin Brueckner]

For many,many years I have made my own battery cables and repaired connectors on existing cables. I use standard non tinned cable when buying new. Soldering stranded cable to copper terminal connectors has worked well for me over the years. A major advantage is that one can place batteries, terminals, cables in their permanent place then cut the cable with bolt cutters to the exact length needed. (Don't fight cables with a hacksaw) If you leave a few inches extra, then in 50 years later if the end strands flex or deterioriate from battery acid, you can cutoff a few inches, solder a new connector and be set for the next fifty years. 
   
  Also, as posted here in the past, "aircraft" type battery terminals are preferred (by me at least) to standard marine terminals but may cost a dollar or two more apiece. Many different type battery terminals can be found at online stores. 
   
  An advantage to soldering the ends is that wicking of either water or battery acid mositure is virtually eliminated. I usually pinch the terminal to hold it on the strands while I solder...not a real crimp. The disadvantage is that if the cable  SERIOUSLY overheats  in service, the solder can melt and lead to a poor connection. 
   
  Rob Brueckner
  1972 48ft Hatteras YF
  New Rochelle, NY

       
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