Auto Parts: battery cables, mustang v6, ford mustang

Question
I have a 99 Ford Mustang v6. My battery cable ends were loose and once those were tightned I still have the problem of it not starting at times. So I have to wiggle the cables mainly the negative to get power for it to start. On the postive cable I can see the wires within the cable that are going into the cable end where the rubber encasing may have been cut off. Well corrosion has covered it and I tried to get it off hopeing that could be a culprit. I'm thinking I need to replace the entire battery cable assembly so I don't have to worry about it. Is it ok to buy a used battery cable assembly or does it have to be brand new? Apparently mine are so long they go around the entire engine or something according to a friend who looked at it. Point being that Local auto parts stores don't carry that length cause I guess its some special part that only Ford dealerships can get. The price is rediculous so do you have any suggestions on real cheap batter cable assemblies for a 99 ford mustang.

Answer
Hi Kimberly,

You sound like you have some idea of what you're looking at. That's a good thing. Oxidation inside the terminals will cause a reduced amount of amperage to make it to the starter which will cause the starter to not function properly, as you are experiencing.

Replacing the entire length of cable IS one option, but you could probably take care of your issue by just purchasing new universal ends. Cut the old ends off of the cable as close to the ends as possible but passed the oxidated part. get about two cups of warm water and add two tablespoons of baking soda to it and mix well. Use this to wash off the battery anywhere that oxidation is, especially around the terminals. Attach the new ends to the cables and then to the battery (Positive cable first. ALWAYS connect the neg. LAST). You can get universal replacement battery ends almost anywhere including department stores like WalMart, Kmart and anyplace that sells automotive products.

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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