48 Special negative cable sheared...

[GiddyUpGp]

Sheared. About 8" from the front of the engine. Positive cable untouched. The negative cable simply bolts to the engine block and feeds down into the battery compartment. Where is a good place to get this grade/gauge of cable for replacement? I would think it doesn't have to be original equipment. It is quite heavy duty compared to regular wiring..... any suggestions?

This is a 1995 48 Special Evinrude.

 

[HybridMX6]

Re: 48 Special negative cable sheared...

Either go to a marine store and get some (they sell it by the foot, so you will need the terminals as well for it, probably 2 large ring terminals, or go to an auto parts store and get one already assembled. They have different lengths of them available. I've done/tried both, and while I would assume the marine grade would hold up better, I find it hard to get the ring terminals connected properly, and have to replace them/repair them once in a while. The auto store cable will hold up as long as you keep water off it. Get saltwater on their connections and it'll corrode very quickly. I ended up using a screw-on type comprsssion ring terminal and bought the wire at West Marine (this was for my trolling motor, already have the auto store cable for the outboard) and electrical taping the crap out of it. Hasn't given me any problems in over 2 years.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: 48 Special negative cable sheared...

Most NAPA stores will make up cables to a specific length.

 

[bankerjohn]

Re: 48 Special negative cable sheared...

If you want it last and be essentially problem-free, spend the little bit extra and buy marine grade wire (tinned fine-strand copper) ... there's a seller on eBay that I've bought a lot of stuff from that will make up battery cables to your specifications ... with marine grade cable ... with crimped on terminals and adhesive filled heat shrink! Check out ... http://stores.shop.ebay.com/Genuinedealz/Custom-Cable-Assembly.html_

 

[HybridMX6]

Re: 48 Special negative cable sheared...

That sounds like the best deal to me right there, depending on the price. I'm not positive what gauge wire it is, so I didn't look at a price. Good link, thanks.

 

[GiddyUpGp]

Re: 48 Special negative cable sheared...

Thanks to all for the input. I feel better about the situation and will order some marine grade material if not available at a boating store in the area. I also have learned not to loan my boat out to relatives.....