QuestionMy 98 Blazer wouldn't start, wouldn't click over at all. I discovered my positive battery cable and terminal were very corroded and I'm pretty sure all I need is to replace them with a new cable and possibly a new terminal. That's about $9 in parts. An auto shop quoted me a $150 for parts and labor. Is this an incredibly time-consuming task? I think I'm going to do it myself -- though I know little about auto repair. If I just buy a maintenance manual, borrow some tools and dive in, is this something I can handle?
AnswerHello Brendan,
Yes, it is something that can be done by just about anyone willing to get his hands a little dirty.
It is also possible to do a quick fix, where you cut the existing cable back to good clean wire, and use a clamp on connector, but you need a little extra cable in order to do that.
The best way is to get a good orriginal equipment, or factory type cable, but the starter end of the cable is the hardest part to connect. There isn't much room to work. It might be easier to remove the right front wheel, and access the starter area from under there. It's easier on some Chevies.
The lug on the starter end of the cable has a little indexing tab on it, that MUST be properly positioned in the little slot on the solenoid. If not properly positioned, the solenoid end can be broken. Also, don't tighten that nut too tight, or that can break the solenoid too.
Of course, disconnect the ground cable from the battery before starting the job.
Total time, if all goes well, is about an hour.
Good luck,
Van
