New negative battery clamp needed

greylag
greylag Forum Participant Posts: 584
edited March 2023 in Parts & Accessories #1

I have had problems with the quick release negative battery clamp struggling to remain tight.  So I have decided to replace it with the old fashioned nut and bolt type clamp, I'm just not sure of the Amp rating....it is a 2.3 Ducato.  Any help would be appreciated. 

Comments

  • mickysf
    mickysf Forum Participant Posts: 6,474 ✭✭✭
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    edited March 2023 #2

    Not sure the clamps have ratings, more to do with the capacity of the wiring connected to them. Even with a tight clamp problems can occur. Best to clean both the battery poles and the camps then use a proper battery terminal grease for best performance. This can make a big difference. I have used quick release clamps in the past with no problems but they too needed attention now and again. In fact I was just contemplating changing over to these on my latest van.

  • greylag
    greylag Forum Participant Posts: 584
    edited March 2023 #3

    I went online to have a look and they all had various ratings, I just thought it must be important.   The quick release one currently in place does not always give a tight grip and there is no way to tighten the clamp.

     

    I think I will not replace the complete strap, just the actual clamp.

    Thanks for your reply. 

  • mickysf
    mickysf Forum Participant Posts: 6,474 ✭✭✭
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    edited March 2023 #4

    Hopefully this is helpful, when I worked on battery terminals I find it helpful to turn off the systems/control panel etc in the van and remove the inline fuse on the positive lead from the battery before disconnecting and working on the clamps.  Put the fuse back in only when you are happy with the corrective work you have done. You must of course take the usual precautions with the battery but at least it’s disconnected from the vital electronic components before you start.

  • greylag
    greylag Forum Participant Posts: 584
    edited March 2023 #5

    Mick

     

    You are spot on about isolating the systems from the battery.  I recently had the engine management light  come up, finished up having to replace the ECU.  I believe poor battery connection might have been the issue.

     

    Away from home I once had the warning power steering light come on, I spoke to recovery firm and they were going to recover me the next day.  I then checked the battery connections and sure enough it was not tight enough, wiggled it and light went out.  No need for recovery.

    I will try and find the inline fuse....a good tip!

     

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