Replace the positive battery cable on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette with 327ci V8 engine, including removal of the old cable from battery post to starter solenoid and installation of new cable.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent with correct length and terminal ends
• Battery terminal grease × 1 — Dielectric grease or terminal protectant

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is off and ignition key is removed
2. Open hood and secure in raised position
3. Inspect battery for cracks, leaks, or excessive corrosion that may require battery replacement
4. If corrosion is present, neutralize with baking soda and water solution before beginning work
5. Verify you have correct replacement cable with proper length and terminal configurations

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery cable
   Using appropriate wrench, loosen and remove the negative battery cable from the negative battery post. Move the cable away from the battery and secure it so it cannot accidentally contact the terminal during service.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive cable from battery post
   Using appropriate wrench, loosen the clamp bolt on the positive battery cable terminal. Remove the positive cable from the positive battery post. Keep the cable end away from any metal surfaces to prevent accidental grounding.
3. 3

   Trace and identify positive cable routing
   Follow the positive battery cable from the battery through the engine compartment to identify all attachment points and routing clips. On the 1966 Corvette 327, the positive cable routes from the battery down to the starter solenoid, which is integral to the starter motor mounted low on the passenger side at the rear of the engine block near the bellhousing. Note any clips, brackets, or tie points securing the cable.
4. 4

   Disconnect cable from starter solenoid
   Locate the starter solenoid, which is integral to the starter motor mounted low on the passenger side at the rear of the engine block near the bellhousing. The positive battery cable attaches to the solenoid terminal stud. Using a wrench, remove the terminal nut securing the positive cable to the solenoid. Remove the cable terminal from the stud. There may be additional wires on this stud; note their position for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove cable routing clips and brackets
   Release the positive battery cable from any routing clips, brackets, or tie points along its path. Note the exact routing for proper installation of the new cable.
6. 6

   Remove old positive battery cable
   Carefully extract the old positive battery cable from the engine compartment, ensuring it does not snag on any components. Inspect the cable routing path for any sharp edges or heat sources that may have damaged the old cable.
7. 7

   Clean battery post and terminals
   Using a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner, thoroughly clean the positive battery post to bare metal. Remove all corrosion, oxidation, and debris. Clean the inside of the new cable terminal as well to ensure good electrical contact.
8. 8

   Clean starter solenoid terminal stud
   Clean the solenoid terminal stud with a wire brush to remove any corrosion or oxidation. Ensure the terminal surface is clean for good electrical connection.
9. 9

   Route new positive battery cable
   Route the new positive battery cable through the engine compartment following the same path as the original cable. Ensure the cable does not contact any hot surfaces such as exhaust manifolds, sharp edges, or moving components. The cable should follow the inner fender area from battery to starter solenoid with adequate slack to prevent tension.
10. 10

    Connect cable to starter solenoid
    Place the positive cable terminal onto the starter solenoid terminal stud. Reinstall any additional wires that were removed in the same order they were originally positioned. Thread the terminal nut onto the stud and tighten securely using a wrench. Ensure the connection is tight and that the cable terminal cannot rotate on the stud.
11. 11

    Secure cable routing
    Fasten the positive battery cable into all original routing clips, brackets, and tie points. Ensure the cable is properly secured along its entire length and does not have excessive slack that could allow contact with moving parts or heat sources.
12. 12

    Connect cable to positive battery post
    Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease or battery terminal protectant to the positive battery post. Place the positive cable terminal over the positive battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post and tighten the clamp bolt securely using a wrench. The terminal should not be able to rotate or pull off the post.
13. 13

    Reconnect negative battery cable
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the negative battery post. Tighten the clamp bolt securely. Apply dielectric grease to the connection after tightening.

Reassembly

1. Verify both battery cable connections are tight and secure
2. Ensure all cable routing is properly secured and clear of moving parts and heat sources
3. Close hood and verify proper operation of electrical systems

Verification

• Turn ignition key to ON position and verify dash lights illuminate properly
• Start the engine to verify proper cranking and charging system operation
• Check that all electrical accessories function normally (lights, radio, gauges)
• Visually inspect both battery terminals for secure connections with no movement
• After initial start and verification, inspect positive cable connections at both battery and starter solenoid for signs of overheating or looseness

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