Correct Battery Cables - C2

[Ron N.]

Before I order new cables I trying to get clarification on / verify of what I is correct for a 67 SB, No Air. I reviewed the JG 4th edition and checked the web site for posts regarding correct cables. I still am not sure on these items:

Vendor - Lectric Limited / other?
Radius - what should it be?




I would appreciate any input / suggestions. Thanks.

Ron

[Donald T.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Ron,

I believe the judges were referring to the radius at the ends of the spring ring clamps. As far as I know, none of the repro battery cables have the correct radius.

[Chris E.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

How many points did you lose?

[William C.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Actually, the radius in question is at the top edge of the molded peremiter of the lead covering the spring ring. All originals (and the GM print) had a radius on that top outer edge, the original radius was .040 inch, but it became more generous as the tooling wore. Sticks out like a sore thumb if you have ever seen a "real" one. Print attached.

[Ron N.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

How many points did you lose?

Chris, I lost 2 points on originality. I thought it might be an easy / less expensive way to get them back if I can buy a correct pair (about$70.)

Ron

[Ron N.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Actually, the radius in question is at the top edge of the molded peremiter of the lead covering the spring ring. All originals (and the GM print) had a radius on that top outer edge, the original radius was .040 inch, but it became more generous as the tooling wore. Sticks out like a sore thumb if you have ever seen a "real" one. Print attached.

Bill, thank you for clarifying the radius. The document is great for understanding.

I've seen one but that was 42 years ago when I purchased the Vette (new). Problem is I can't remenber how it looked and the originals are long gone.

Ron

[Chris E.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

I bought a pair of battery cables from Lectric Limited. I'm assuming these were the same ones you bought?

I guess it is time to open Chris' Master Spreadsheet of Things He'll Get Dinged For In Judging, and add that to the list......

[William C.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

At least the last time I saw them, the LL items were still produced with the same design used by Tim Partridge when he introduced the Spring Ring reproduction. (I think the same tooling) Might want to save the $$ until you can actually see a set that is correct

[Gary B.]

2-pt originality deduct; a bit harsh in my opinion

Wow, that seems like a big hit for just that radius that's off. With 8 points total for both cables, all the felt washers and clips, let's say the cables alone are worth a total of 4, 5 or 6 points, then the configuration difference should be worth 20% of that, or between 0.8 and 1.2 pts, which rounds to 1 pt, but not 2.

Gary

[William C.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

You have other issues with the reproductions, porosity of the surface finish and more, they just aren't really an accurate representation. Compare one to a real original and you will be surprised.

[Ron N.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Bill is correct. The repos, I have, came from Zip. They look OK, are correct size, color and have the sleeve on the positive cable but no radius, part number different from originals and probably other features an expert judge can detect.

Thanks to all for the input.

Ron

[Gary B.]

Correct Battery Cables - C2

Ron,

Is there no way for a meticulous person to modify the reproduction part to make it more correct?

Gary

[William C.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Never say never, but apart from the dimensional issues, the repros are poured into the mold, while the originals were pressure molded, giving a substantially different surface finish. Anyone can try, but you risk ruining a set of not inexpensive reproductions, and as mentioned, is the two points worth it, given the hurdles to overcome?

[Ron N.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Update

After talking with the Tech Guy (Greg) at Lextric Limited, I ordered a pair of cables. Received them and put them on the car today.

Chris, we may be OK for judging with the LL cables. Big difference compared to one I got from other Vette suppliers. Pisc attached:

1. LL - Radius, Pos. black, correct part #, sleeve / NEG. brown, on part # / no other printing on either

2. Old - No radus, Neg. incorrect part number

Ron

[Chris E.]

Re: Correct Battery Cables - C2

Thanks for the update Ron! I guess I'll see how my car does when it comes to Regionals / Nationals.

Much appreciated on the follow up and the pictures.