CMP Electrics

[Phil Waterman]

Hi

Lynn and Ken's point about the welding cable are on the mark. Adding a ground cable from the battery ground to the chassis to the engine will cure a lot of problems. I've gone over to generally making my own cables using heavy welding cable or heavy fine wire cable from electrical supplier. While your at it get the lug ends from them I like to crimp the lugs on to the cable and while they are nice and clean solder them as well for the best electrical conductivity.

Be sure though that when running your power side of the cable that you use cable clamps to keep the cable in place. Check your routing to be sure of any points were it rubs against anything. One problem with the welding cable that I have encountered is that the insulation is little softer than I'd like and is prone to wearing through. I had a cable fire because of this on a new installation, my own fault didn't have enough cable clamps.

When I replaced the cable after the fire I slid a section of hose over it at the wear point.

Cheers Phil

[Ken Hughes]

Clamping and insulating the cable is a good point Phil.

[Lauren Child]

Thanks folks!

I had spotted the welding cable and wasn't sure, but I'll give it a go with some conduit in the important places

Any ideas for the best way to get at the switch and starter motor? The switch in particular looks like it's in a particularly awkward spot.

TTFN
Lauren

[Ken Hughes]

Hi Lauren,by switch do you mean the soliniod down in the chassis area aft of clutch and brake pedal mount?,or the dash starter button?

[Lauren Child]

Originally Posted by Ken Hughes

Hi Lauren,by switch do you mean the soliniod down in the chassis area aft of clutch and brake pedal mount?,or the dash starter button?

The solenoid down on the frame

It looks to be pretty awkward to get to.

[Ken Hughes]

Yes Lauren,that solenoid is dam awkward to get at,i dont think there is an easy answer,but hey someone here may have one,you never know.
I just kept at it till i got it off.cheers.

[paul Lincoln]

Lauren,
We run our Fords on 6V and, while they are never going to fly on the battery, they do the job with good cables and CLEAN earth connections. What we have found is that OPTIMA batteries are the absolute "Dog's". They can power the vehicle in second gear if it won't start. We have even flattened the battery and, in the time it took to make and drink a cup of tea, it had built up enough power (unaided) to throw her over and start it up! They cost over £100, but we won't consider anything else. David, on 01953 881330 is our friendly supplier and will give you a good deal if you mention my name. He also does brilliant quick release battery terminals in red and blue. Ideal for home made wires and can be removed in a second to render vehicle safe at a show. Paul.