Battery Cable Question ??

[KenMcCulloch]

I have a single 85Ah battery installed and very limited battery space. I plan to install an additional compact starter battery with a conventional selector switch. For reasons of convenience in making up the cables I plan to use battery cables with end 'lugs' sometimes called stop end terminals, and stud-type battery terminal clamps rather than the screw clamp type. Can anyone with more electrical expertise than I have advise whether there are potential problems or difficulties arising from using that type of cable connection? Am I going to set my boat on fire?

 

[savageseadog]

You're doing the right thing. Lugs will need to be crimped with a proper crimper. I've only used a mechanical one with long arms but I would imagine the hydraulic ones are better. Soak the ends in duck oil, silicon oil or whatever before crimping

 

[Csail]

Im doing mine aswell but why soak the ends??

 

[savageseadog]

Stops corrosion.
Duck oil is similar to WD40 but has a more lubricand/wax or whatever.

 

[ambientmarine]

you can also use solder to seal the ends as well, heat the lug over a gas or similar burner using a pair of mole grips as a heat shunt to protect the outer sheath and then feed electrical solder ( the kind with resin built in) into the joint. You'll have a sealed and permanently connected joint for life!