Battery Cable - Positive

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 L83 engine, including all connections from the battery to the starter and electrical distribution points.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable assembly × 1 — GM 23136982 or equivalent
• Battery terminal bolt hardware × 1 — Replace if corroded

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with engine off and cool
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove key from ignition
3. Open the hood and secure with prop rod
4. Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the passenger side
5. Take note of or photograph the positive cable routing for proper reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black) battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery and secure it away from the battery post to prevent accidental contact. This must be done first for safety.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (red) battery terminal bolt. Carefully remove the positive cable from the battery post. Be cautious not to allow the cable or terminal to contact any grounded metal surfaces.
3. 3

   Remove underhood fuse box connections
   Locate the underhood electrical center (fuse box) near the battery. The positive cable connects to the power distribution stud on the fuse box. Remove the plastic protective cover if present. Using a 13mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable ring terminal to the distribution stud. Note the orientation and position of any other cables or wires on this stud.
4. 4

   Disconnect starter motor connection
   Trace the positive cable down toward the starter motor on the passenger side of the engine. The cable connects to the starter solenoid stud. Using a 13mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable to the starter. You may need an extension to access this connection. Be careful not to drop the nut.
5. 5

   Remove cable mounting clips
   Follow the cable route and remove any plastic clips or cable ties securing the positive cable to the engine harness or body. Note the exact routing and clip locations for reinstallation. Gently work the cable free from all mounting points.
6. 6

   Remove old positive cable
   Once all connections and mounting points are freed, carefully remove the positive battery cable from the vehicle. Inspect the cable routing path and ensure no additional connections were missed.
7. 7

   Clean all connection points
   Using a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner, clean the battery positive post, the starter solenoid connection point, and the fuse box power distribution stud. Remove all corrosion and oxidation to ensure good electrical contact. Wipe clean with a dry cloth.
8. 8

   Route new positive cable
   Route the new positive battery cable following the same path as the original. Ensure the cable does not contact any sharp edges, hot exhaust components, or moving parts. The cable should have a natural curve without excessive bending or tension.
9. 9

   Connect cable to starter motor
   Position the positive cable ring terminal onto the starter solenoid stud. Ensure it seats flat against the mounting surface. Install the nut and tighten to secure. Verify the connection is tight and the cable cannot rotate on the stud.
10. 10

    Connect cable to fuse box
    Install the positive cable ring terminal onto the underhood fuse box power distribution stud. Ensure proper orientation and that the terminal seats completely. Reinstall any other cables that were removed in the same order as original. Install the nut and tighten securely. Reinstall the protective cover if equipped.
11. 11

    Secure cable routing
    Install all cable mounting clips and secure the positive cable along its entire route. Ensure the cable is properly supported and cannot vibrate or move excessively. Verify adequate clearance from exhaust, belts, and other moving components.
12. 12

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post or terminal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to the specified torque. A small spark when making final contact is normal. Apply battery terminal protection spray if desired.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Double-check that all cable connections are tight and secure
2. Verify proper cable routing with no interference or excessive tension
3. Ensure battery hold-down is properly installed and secure
4. Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start) and verify dashboard lights illuminate properly
• Check for any warning lights that were not present before the repair
• Start the engine and verify it cranks normally with no unusual sounds
• Test electrical accessories including lights, power windows, and radio to confirm proper operation
• Verify no smoke, burning smell, or heat from any cable connections
• Allow engine to idle and inspect all connections for signs of arcing or overheating
• Use a voltmeter to verify charging system is functioning (should read 13.5-14.5 volts at battery with engine running)

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