Battery Cable - Positive

Replace the positive battery cable connecting the battery positive terminal to the starter solenoid and electrical system on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with 390ci V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — OEM-style with correct length for 390ci V8, approximately 48 inches
• Battery terminal protector spray or grease × 1 — Dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Identify positive battery cable route from battery through firewall to starter solenoid on passenger side of engine
5. Note any cable routing clips or ties for proper reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm or 1/2 inch wrench, loosen the negative (black or unmarked) battery terminal clamp bolt. Remove the cable from the battery and position it away from the terminal to prevent accidental contact during the repair.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm or 1/2 inch wrench, loosen the positive (red) battery terminal clamp bolt. Carefully remove the positive cable from the battery post. Keep the cable end away from any metal surfaces to prevent short circuits.
3. 3

   Locate starter solenoid connection
   From the engine bay, locate the starter solenoid mounted on the passenger side inner fender or firewall. The positive battery cable will connect to one of the large terminals on the solenoid, typically the terminal closest to the battery. Note the routing of any additional wires connected to the same terminal stud.
4. 4

   Disconnect cable at starter solenoid
   Using a 1/2 inch or 13mm wrench, remove the nut securing the positive battery cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud. If multiple wires are stacked on this terminal, note their order for reassembly. Remove the cable terminal from the stud.
5. 5

   Remove cable routing clips
   Trace the positive cable from battery to solenoid and remove any clips, ties, or retainers holding the cable to the inner fender, core support, or other mounting points. On the Rebel Machine, the cable typically routes along the passenger side inner fender. Note clip locations for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove old positive cable
   Carefully extract the old positive battery cable from the vehicle, following its routing path. Check for any additional connection points that may have been overlooked. Inspect the cable path for sharp edges or heat sources that may have damaged the old cable.
7. 7

   Clean battery terminal and solenoid stud
   Use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to clean corrosion from the positive battery post and the starter solenoid terminal stud. Ensure clean, bare metal contact surfaces for proper electrical connection. Apply penetrating oil to solenoid stud threads if corroded.
8. 8

   Route new positive cable
   Route the new positive battery cable along the same path as the original, from the battery location along the passenger side inner fender to the starter solenoid. Ensure the cable does not contact sharp edges, hot engine components, or moving parts like the fan or belts. The cable should have slight slack to prevent strain.
9. 9

   Connect cable to starter solenoid
   Place the positive cable terminal onto the starter solenoid stud. If other wires were removed, reinstall them in their original order (typically the main cable terminal goes on first, then additional accessory wires). Thread the retaining nut onto the stud and tighten firmly using a 1/2 inch or 13mm wrench until snug. Do not overtighten to avoid damaging the terminal or stud.
10. 10

    Secure cable routing
    Reinstall all cable routing clips and retainers in their original positions to secure the positive cable along the inner fender. Ensure the cable is properly supported and cannot contact moving components or areas of excessive heat. Additional cable ties may be used if original clips are damaged.
11. 11

    Connect positive terminal to battery
    Place the positive cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post. Thread the clamp bolt and tighten using a 10mm or 1/2 inch wrench until the terminal is snug and cannot rotate on the post. Do not overtighten to avoid damaging the battery post.
12. 12

    Connect negative terminal to battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery post. Tighten the clamp bolt using a 10mm or 1/2 inch wrench until snug. Expect a small spark when making final contact, which is normal as the electrical system energizes.
13. 13

    Apply terminal protector
    Spray or apply dielectric grease or battery terminal protector to both battery terminals to prevent future corrosion. Ensure good coverage around the cable-to-post connection areas.

Reassembly

1. Verify all connections are tight and secure at both battery and starter solenoid
2. Ensure positive cable routing does not interfere with any moving components
3. Confirm no tools or materials are left in engine bay

Verification

• Turn ignition key to accessory position and verify dash lights illuminate, confirming electrical system function
• Attempt to start the engine to verify starter solenoid receives power through the new positive cable
• Check for any smoke, burning smell, or excessive heat at connections during initial operation
• Verify battery terminals are not loose and connections remain tight after starting
• Inspect positive cable routing to ensure it remains clear of moving parts and hot surfaces

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