ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
10.2.5
WIRING
Cables and wiring are an important part of the electrical system which is often overlooked or
neglected.
The cables are the highway on which the electrical energy travels.
Just one faulty or dirty connection can reduce electrical energy transfer just as surely as traf
fi
c
on a modern four lane highway that is narrowed to one lane. As long as traf
fi
c is light there is
no problem but during rush hour it is quite different. Cranking the engine on a cold morning
with a faulty or dirty connection which restricts the
fl
ow is the same as rush hour on a suddenly
reduced highway.
Guidelines for Electrical Wiring
Guidelines for electrical wiring start with determining the vehicle or chassis type, system voltage,
starting motor type, batteries used and location. That information is then used to determine
proper routing, cable length and size, insulation, terminals, routing clamps, loom or conduit
requirements and connections.
Use for following guidelines for electrical wiring:
□
Rope stranded copper cable is recommended for #0 or larger cable sizes because of its
added
fl
exibility.
□
A full copper circuit is recommended for all installations because it maintains the lowest
resistance and is the most trouble free.
□
Good cable routing is not too tight or loose, is properly supported, and avoids excessive
heat, abrasion and vibration.
□
Conduit or loom should be considered to protect cable where extreme heat or abrasion
cannot be avoided.
□
Die-cast lead alloy terminals are recommended for post-type batteries.
□
Sealed terminals are recommended where sealed terminal batteries are available.
□
Ring terminals are not recommended for battery connections but are recommended for
other connections.
□
Clamps should be used to support the battery cable every 24 in., and to relieve strain at
battery and motor terminals, around corners and other stress points.
□
External or internal tooth lock washers are not recommended for battery cable electrical
connections.
□
Frame area where ground connection is made should be stripped of paint and tinned to
prevent corrosion.
□
Recommended battery cable connections to the frame have hardened steel
fl
at washers
with a locking nut.
10-10
All information subject to change without notice.
(Rev. 03/06)
7SA250 0603
Copyright © 2006 DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION