PSC

So I've had bad corrosion on my positive terminal for a while. I keep cleaning it but it keeps coming back.
I was also having some starting problems so I decided to chenge the connector.
The cable is crimped at the connector, so I cut the cable, and used a connector from Autozone.

So I stripped the two copper cables, bolted them down on the connector and re-connected the positive and negative cables.

When I turn the key to ACC I noticed that none of my guage lights came on.
And when I turn to start, nothing happens.

My A/C lights on the center console came on, and the house lights work too.

Any ideas? I need to get this fixed.

Here's a pic of my new connector.

Jeffman

I would guess maybe a poor connection from the cables to the connector. I would probably start by scraping some of the paint off where the copper touches it, and see if that helps. Make sure it's getting a good connection or you'll have problems. I had the same thing happen to me in my old Prelude, that seemed to do the trick. I didn't go as far as replacing the connector, but by doing a thorough cleaning job I was able to fix it.

PSC

Thanks a mechanic I know suggested the same thing!
Thanks.
Any other thoughts are welcomed.
Let me go and try this now.

PSC

I stripped the paint off the surface that the copper cable contacts on the connector, intertwined the two cables together for maximum contact between them, checked the connection at the starter and it still didn't work.

Then I noticed a thin cable that used to be bolted to the old connector that was just laying around......

I attached it and magic! The car started

That's how it is when you're dumb.

miltcharlie

I was going to suggest that . But I was late.

Also. The connector you have is a temporary connector.
Not meant for long term use. couuld melt under high tempiture. I would replace it with a gold connector, plus, would do the same with the ground.

Tamotsu

As a practice, I always greased up the copper strands and all areas of the connector, including the post before hooking everything back up. The grease helps keep battery acid from corroding the connection...it doesn't hurt conductivity. You saved a lot of money, the OEM cable runs about $80.00 from what I have heard. by the way, clean the post good with a wire brush before hooking up the new connector...helps to do a good job all the way

PSC

Yeh, the OEM cable is about $80-something.
It's just a copper cable though.
I'm going to replace mine just to see if it helps my start issues.

I got the gold-plated connectors, gonna put those on when I replace the cable.

dan jacobsen

I had the same problem with a new "clam shell" desgn on my neg post. It just wouldn't make a good connection all the time. I took it to a shop I have done business with for a long time. They installed a neg post that was a crimp on design & a much better connection at the post. No more problems after something like 4 years now. Cost: ~ $120

PSC

Does anyone know the gauge of the starter cable?
Mine is showing corrosion at the starter end and I want to replace the whole thing, but the dealer cable is as stated, $80.

Where could I get good-quality starter cable? Not the crappy Autozone cables.
Someone let me know please, thanks.

CitizenPete

Heres a marine cable I found 25 feet in length though Says it resists corrosion. Too much cable for mere mortals.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/4-AWG...mZ290246243167

novaacrua

I just had this too -- never noticed it but the mechanic saw it and replaced it with a new connector and cable. didn't charge me too much for it - so i didn't complain. BUT then he also put in a new battery because the old one would not hold a charge. I've had it more than 3 years so again, no complaints.

Is this common with Acura's... I've never heard it happening elsewhere.