lesson learned...check the simple things first

[oldford2]

I thought you would enjoy my latest.
Last week Barb and I headed out for a trip to Vermont in the old 46 buggy. Stopped to get gas and when I tried to start it all I got was a click from the solenoid. Dead battery?? lights worked so ruled that out.There was a slight downgrade from the pump so Barb got in and I gave it push. She popped the clutch and it started right up. So I stopped at the top of a hill and shut it off. Same thing, just a click. So another jump start and we took it home and went on our way in the Jeep. When I got home I tested the relay and it was doing it’s job. Figured it was the starter so jacked it up, and crawled under and removed the starter. Put it on the bench and it spun fine. So back under to re-install it. No fun for an old guy!
Then, finally noticed a crack in the terminal clamp! It was broken and apparently enough current to run the lights, ignition and relay but not the starter. Put a new clamp on and it started right up. Expand the picture and you will see the clamp break.
John

[TomT/Williamsburg]

It's always the little thingd that getcha!

[51 MERC-CT]

Yes, indeed and a build up of oxidation on the terminal and clamp will do the same thing. (had it happen) Needless to say, periodic cleaning was in order after that incident.

[37 Cab]

I never use those clamps. That connection should have a cable with the clamp crimped or soldered. Those cheap clamps are a breeding ground for corrosion and poor connection.

[corvette8n]

I've had clamps like that bite me also, found a nice heavy cable in tractor supply and replaced the whole thing.

[russcc]

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Excellent recommendation, regular or heavy duty battery cables either soldered or crimped by machine. Someone posted a source for USA made battery cables here recently.

[B-O-B]

I agree with 37 Cab, those are for the scrap pile. Good ones are not that hard to come by.

[Flathead]

I think that the quality of those replacement clamps has gone downhill quite a bit as well.

[ford38v8]

Just one of a hundred different examples of poor electrical connections masquerading as something else.

[uncle buck]

those terminals should only be used as an emergency repair

[FortyNiner]

Good reminder that trouble shooting always starts with the basics.

[chap52]

We have all been on those "rabbit trails". It was easier for me to laugh at those adventures when I was in my 20's. You would think that 50 years later I would know better.
Glad you found the culprit, Chap

[oldford2]

So, what is the best terminal clamp to use?
Thanks
John

[51 MERC-CT]

Originally Posted by oldford2

So, what is the best terminal clamp to use?
Thanks
John

There really is not anything wrong with the type that you had (they have been used with success for years)
But some want you to install a cable assy that can be fabricated here----

https://www.batterycablesusa.com/00-...s-2-0-awg.html

[37 Cab]

Or you can buy replacement cables from most old ford parts suppliers. Here is an example.
https://cgfordparts.com/ufolder/show...8&g=155&t=1139

[Licensed to kill]

On my new to me 35 truck, it would just barely turn over with a fully charged battery so I took every ground cable off and the two battery cables and took them to our local John Deere dealer and had new ones made up in "00" cable, all crimped on ends including the battery cables, all made to length. As good as any premade cable and custom tailored (length) for my requirements. BTW, the thing spins over almost like a 12 volt system now.

[RalphM]

These are the best that I have found. Use with Cables that have soldered on terminals, but like all electrical connections have to be clean, and tight.

[Brendan]

i replaced the head gasket and new head studs, and a valve lap job also replaced a burnt valve in my A put it back together and tried to start, it turned over fast but would not fire. checked timing and firing order it was right still would not fire. it helps to turn on the gas!