How to Make a Battery Cable for Your Boat
June 20, 2021 · 13 min · 15K views
What this video covers
Fabricating heavy-duty battery jumpers requires precise cable preparation, proper crimping techniques, and correct hardware stacking to ensure electrical conductivity. When working with 2-0 gauge cable, measure the required length to allow for gentle, even bends rather than tight angles.1:37 Strip the insulation carefully to avoid cutting wire strands, then twist the cable strands to match their natural lay before inserting them fully into the lug.3:52 Use a battery crimper with the appropriate die set—such as E and A for 2-0 cable—and perform two separate crimps to ensure full compression.5:43 Apply heat shrink tubing over the connection, ensuring it does not cover the flat contact surface of the lug.8:36 When installing the finished cable, stack hardware so that stainless steel components, which are poor conductors, remain on the outside of the connection.12:16 Pre-preparing cables outside of confined spaces like lazarettes or bilges improves accuracy and leverage.6:47 Always verify that all terminal connections are tightened before applying power to the system.11:56
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