Battery Terminal Compatibility Issue?

[Chuck1986]

I just bought a new "universal" positive battery terminal that looks like this (notice the two bolts for the connection to the power supply):

Only problem is, the OEM positive battery terminal has ONE hole for the bolt connection, not two like the one above:

My question is, can I use the top battery terminal with two bolts for the connection if I just use one of the bolts for the connection point and other I just leave alone with no connection?

 

[Chuck1986]

Ok, here's a better illustration of what I wanna do, please let me know if this is feasible:

 

[javacontour]

Electrically, I don't see any reason you cannot. You may want to remove that bit of metal that is designed to crimp a bare battery cable to the terminal, or just reverse it, so the part sticking up goes down into the opening between the two bolts. This will probably give you a better mount.

Or just return the universal one, and get the one pictured that more closely matches what you currently have.

It is probably lead free, while the universal one is made largely of lead.

 

[ediamiam]

I think your cable is suppose to attach in that depression between the 2 bolts. Loosen the 2 bolts, insert between them, and tighten.

 

[Kestas]

I see no problem with your plan. You only need a decent path for current. I suspect it may be better than what you're replacing. Just make sure the connections are clean and corrosion-free.

 

[javacontour]

Originally Posted By: ediamiam
I think your cable is suppose to attach in that depression between the 2 bolts. Loosen the 2 bolts, insert between them, and tighten.


If you had a typical domestic battery cable, that had a large lead end, this would probably be the case. Cut off the bad terminal, strip the insulation and replace the end.

However, looking at the OP's signature, he has import vehicles, which probably come with the second type of terminal, and there is a collection of wires that end in a "terminal" of sorts that would attach via the stud and nut at the end of the terminal device.

This is why I recommend the one closer to the factory style. But the one purchased could be used.

I would NOT strip the wires and attach them under the friction fitting if this were my car.

 

[alreadygone]

Your plan is perfectly acceptable as long as your present cables have good eye terminals. As stated the universal end you have is designed for bare wire to be inserted between bolts and compressed by cross piece. DO not cut off perfectly good eyes to do this. Use as you originally planned. Forget about second bolt unless at a later date you should install additional circuits (I.E. radio amplifier).

Bob

 

[Donald]

I would get the right connector unless you are in a rush. I agree with others to not strip the eye connector on your current wire. Use some dielectric grease or Vaseline on the eye connection and the battery post itself.

Oddly marine batteries have a threaded post and wing nuts just for an eye connection.

 

[brianl703]

Not odd at all, trolling motors invariably come with a spade lug connection.

 

[SHOZ]

You can get the OEM style spring terminals at WalMart for the cheap. Much better than the lead heads IMHO.

 

[tom slick]

your plan is ok but that style of bolt on terminal is the worst style to use because of the way that the wire is clamped. those are often sold as "emergency repair terminals". they tend to loosen up and corrode over time, making a poor connection.

a good crimped-on or soldered lug (or both) that bolts to the battery terminal would be a superior connection.

here is a thread on another board discussing heavy duty terminals.
http://www.steelsoldiers.com/index.php?name=PNphpBB2&file=viewtopic&p=156928

http://www.pullpal.com/terminals/terminals.html

 

[Steve S]

I would give your idea a try but heed Tom Slicks advise as the ultimate truth.