I just got curious about something. My boat battery has they type of terminal posts where one post is large and smooth (for a clamp type connection) and on the same piece of lead is a screw post. Same for both pos and neg. So I was wondering, when building new cables is it better to use clamp type ends to clamp onto the larger posts, or use round terminal ends with nuts on the screw posts? Or does it matter at all?
Re: Battery posts
really does not matter, as long as you use a large and heavy enough ring. they both are going to corrode. do away with the wing nuts, and use a hex nut you can tighten, put a drop of oil on the post before tighten.
my Barracuda battery has both, and a stainless nyloc nuts.
Re: Battery posts
If the boat already has one type of connector, you can stick with that. If making new battery cables, using the ring connectors for the threaded studs is good, because you can crimp and shrink-tube the connector, keeping dampness and corrosion at bay. The clamp-type connectors usually have exposed wire strands that can allow moisture and corrosion to go up the wire like a wick.
I use stainless wing nuts, and on the Great Lakes, have not had any corrosion issues in 25 years. I do use a light film of grease (Vaseline works well) on the threads. Usually, the (+) side is 3/8, while the (-) side is 5/16. That helps, because if you have the correct size rings, you can't install then backwards, as the 5/16 ring won't fit on the 3/8 stud.
The lead clamp-type connectors with the cross bolts for the large posts should work OK, if the boat is already setup for them. I would also put a light coating of grease on the bolts on those (take it apart, coat it lightly, then reassemble.
Re: Battery posts
Most marine engine wiring bundles use the ring terminals. and that is why marine batteries will always have that setup.
If you are 'building' your own. use the proper gauge ring terminals. And be sure to use the heat shrink (and adhesive filled) crimp terminals from Ancor. you will bless they day that you did!
Re: Battery posts
I remember that some marine batteries did not ever come with the lead post. I agree with Rocky Road. Pvanv makes a good point about the different size lugs, use the right material if you are going to do it. Also if you are going to crimp new ring terminals on the cables, you need to use the right crimping tool. They are to expensive to buy, so you need to find somewhere where you can get it done or rent a crimping tool. Don?t try to improvise with a pair of vise grips or something. Wiring on a boat if done correctly, will give you years of trouble free use. If done incorrectly or taking shortcuts, it can be one of the biggest pain in the arsses. Believe me, I have tried it both ways.