Battery wire leads - replace after 25 years?

[Guest]

I'm repainting the battery box on an '82 850G, and replacing all the rubber bits that go with it (rubber base, cushions, etc.) While I'm at it, should I replace the thick lead wires that attach to the positive and negative terminals? They don't look bad, and the bike has spent most of its life indoors, but is this just good practice after 25+ years?

[Agemax]

it sure wont hurt and for the price you can get them it makes common sense if you ask my opinon

[Nessism]

Yea, seems like a no-brainer except the wires are permanently attached to the coils. You can dig the old wires out of the coils but it takes some digging and patients. I've never done this but have read several posts here about it such as this one... http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum...6&postcount=18

[Agemax]

Yea, seems like a no-brainer except the wires are permanently attached to the coils. You can dig the old wires out of the coils but it takes some digging and patients. I've never done this but have read several posts here about it such as this one... http://www.thegsresources.com/_forum...6&postcount=18

he dosent mention the coil wires, he is just asking about the main battery cables

[Nessism]

he dosent mention the coil wires, he is just asking about the main battery cables

Wow, I misread that one! Nevermind!

Regarding the battery wires, I'd reuse them unless there is corrosion on them.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

On the battery cables, check where the ends are crimped. That's where a lot of corrosion will cause issues. It's possible to clean them with naval jelly or other contact cleaner, then hit them with some solder. Take a wire brush to all the rings on the ends of the cables and to the battery posts. Also clean the engine case where the negative battery cable attaches, scrub with a wire brush and use contact cleaner, etc. All of the connections on the entire wiring harness should be cleaned in this manner.

How To Repair Your Wiring Harness

Cleaning Your Wiring Harness

I'm with Mr. Nessism, if they're not corroded beyond a little clean-up, it's OK to reuse them. But it never hurts to put new parts on your bike.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff