C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

[Edward M.]

OK, is there any way to replace the positive battery cable on a 79 with the engine and transmission in the car?

I looked at it and I can't see how to get to the first two cable clamp bolts to get them loose. And even if I did, I can't see how to get the battery cable routed with the transmission in place.

I have considered removing the transmission crossmember bolts and lowering the rear of the engine / transmission combination an inch or so. Will that help?

Plan B is to find a way to extend a positive battery cable. The cable in there now is OK, but it has been cut off at the end and is about a foot too short. Also doesn't have the proper end on it.

Originality is not an issue, functionality (and safety) is the issue.

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

After changing the positive battery cable on my 68 with 4-speed, it can be done without moving the transmission, just use patience.
In doing this and knowing my 70 with turbo 400 would have to be handled differently. Have not had to do it yet, but my approach to doing it, I would unbolt the crossmember and lower the turbo 400 a safe amount but not beyond ruining the front motor mounts.
Wonder if the cable support mounting locations could of changed throughout the model years of 68-79 to make the positive cable change easier on later models?

[Don L.]

Re: C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

Edward: I've done this job on my '72 4 speed. HATED IT! First make sure you have a 7/16" SWIVEL socket in 1/4" drive, an 8"+ long extension/ratchet for the cable clamps. Make sure you also have plenty of patience and bandaids!

It can be done. Make sure you have the length set properly at the battery end - some slack, but not so much that you end up short by the time you work your way to the starter. You'll likely need to bend the foil insulator tabs and move the insulator aside to fish the cable between the body and the insulator, just above the trans.

I used WD 40 and petroleum jelly to help push the heavy rubber grommet out/in at the battery tub. This job was a bear, but very doable without lowering any components.

[Kurt B.]

Re: C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

Jim,
I too have a 68 and would be interested in how you replaced the cable just in case the day comes that I need to do it in my car.
I have a 4 speed manual trans, if that makes a difference.
Thank you
Kurt

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

Kurt I can't really add any more in how to do it then what Don posted. A 68 4-speed would be the same as the 72. The underbody insulation does have to be moved on the passenger side, nor removed.

[Kurt B.]

Re: C3 positive battery cabvle replacement

Thanks Jim
Kurt