This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine, including disconnection at the battery, starter, and power distribution box.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or match existing cable gauge and length
• Battery terminal anti-corrosion washers × 1 — Optional replacement if corroded

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from vehicle
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Allow engine to cool if recently operated
5. Locate battery in engine compartment (driver side)
6. Identify the positive battery cable routing from battery through power distribution box to starter

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black) battery terminal clamp bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the battery 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 clamp bolt. Carefully remove the positive cable from the battery post. If stuck, use a battery terminal puller rather than prying to avoid damage. Keep the cable end away from metal surfaces.
3. 3

   Remove battery hold-down (if necessary)
   If the battery must be removed for cable access or replacement, remove the battery hold-down bracket bolt using a 13mm socket. Remove the hold-down clamp and carefully lift the battery out of the tray. Set aside in a safe location.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect cable from power distribution box
   Locate the under-hood power distribution box (fuse box) on the driver side. Remove the cover by releasing the tabs. Locate the positive battery cable connection point inside the box. Remove the nut or bolt securing the positive cable terminal to the distribution stud using an 8mm or 10mm socket. Lift the cable terminal off the stud.
5. 5

   Disconnect cable from starter motor
   Access the starter motor on the passenger side of the engine, below the intake manifold. The positive battery cable connects to the starter solenoid B+ terminal. Remove the protective boot if present. Use a 13mm socket to remove the nut securing the cable terminal to the solenoid stud. Remove the cable terminal from the stud.
6. 6

   Release cable routing clips
   Follow the cable routing and release any plastic clips or ties securing the positive cable to the engine harness, fender well, or body. Note the exact routing path for reinstallation. Gently work the cable free from all mounting points along its length.
7. 7

   Remove positive battery cable
   Once all connections and clips are released, carefully remove the positive battery cable from the vehicle. Inspect the cable routing path and clean any corrosion or debris from mounting surfaces and connection points using a wire brush.
8. 8

   Prepare and route new cable
   Compare the new positive battery cable to the old one to verify correct length and terminal placement. Clean all connection points (battery post, power distribution stud, starter solenoid stud) with a wire brush. Route the new cable following the exact same path as the original, ensuring it does not contact sharp edges or hot engine components.
9. 9

   Connect cable to starter motor
   Install the cable terminal onto the starter solenoid B+ terminal stud. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the stud. Install the retaining nut and tighten using a 13mm socket. Apply dielectric grease to the connection if desired. Replace the protective boot if equipped.
10. 10

    Connect cable to power distribution box
    Install the cable terminal onto the power distribution box stud. Ensure the terminal is fully seated and properly oriented. Install the retaining nut or bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench and appropriate socket.
    Torque spec

    Connector Screws5 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Secure cable routing
    Reinstall all routing clips and ties along the cable path. Ensure the cable is secured away from moving parts, sharp edges, and hot exhaust components. Verify the cable has adequate slack and is not stretched or kinked at any point.
12. 12

    Reinstall battery and hold-down (if removed)
    If the battery was removed, place it back in the battery tray ensuring correct orientation. Install the hold-down clamp and bracket. Tighten the hold-down bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery case.
    Torque spec

    Battery Hold-Down Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Clean the positive battery post with a wire brush if needed. Place the positive cable terminal onto the positive battery post and ensure it is fully seated. Tighten the terminal clamp bolt to specification using a torque wrench and 10mm socket. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Clean the negative battery post with a wire brush if needed. Place the negative cable terminal onto the negative battery post and ensure it is fully seated. Tighten the terminal clamp bolt to specification using a torque wrench and 10mm socket. Do not overtighten. This must be done last.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the power distribution box cover and ensure all tabs are properly engaged
2. Verify all cable routing is secure and clear of moving or hot components
3. Double-check that all connections are tight and properly torqued

Verification

• Verify battery voltage at terminals reads approximately 12.6V with a multimeter (engine off)
• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify dash lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine and verify it cranks normally without hesitation
• Check that alternator charging voltage reads 13.5-14.5V with engine running
• Verify no warning lights remain illuminated on the dash after startup
• Test electrical accessories (lights, windows, radio) for proper operation
• Inspect all cable connections for signs of arcing, heat, or looseness after test drive
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

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