ground strap

rfix'n · 01-20-2002, 09:18 AM

Looking to replace the one from the transmission to the tunnel. Is there a way to access the tranny side connection without removing the tranny carrier?

If not, I'll probally just add a second strap.

Thanks

Early_S_Man · 01-20-2002, 09:39 AM

Rob,

Can't say for sure on an SC, but I don't think so ...

For a second strap, I would recommend a #4 welding cable, cut to fit (about 3 feet) run from the same location on the floorpan as the trans strap after cleaning and wire-brushing that area to bare, shiny metal, and replacing the M8 bolt and washer with solid brass replacements from your local hardware store ... a 25 mm long M8 bolt and a couple of oversize diameter brass washers (conductivity better than steel) covered in anti-sieze compound will give a better connection to the pan. The welding cable should have the terminals soldered rather than crimped, and should be run to the lower 10 mm stud on the starter, and a brass M10 nut (17 mm hex) can replace the M10 barrel nut, as there is no access problem with a 17 mm wrench at the lower location. Brass washers can secure the ground strap and starter for a better ground connection to the body.

rfix'n · 01-20-2002, 11:03 AM

Thanks Warren, I'll gather up the necessary hardware and add a second strap. I'll still try to cleanup the original but at first glance access looked pretty tight.

jay castriotta · 01-20-2002, 07:03 PM

Actually, you can remove the strap without removing the cross member. I did mine this weekend (80 SC) by using a 6" wobble extension (it allows the socket some degree of misalignment). I think I got mine from JC Whitney (?), but I'm sure Harbor Freight or someone else has them. The part of the extension where the socket fits on is rounded allowing the socket to wobble. Handy things to have. Good luck.

T Bird · 01-20-2002, 07:25 PM

Rob
I recently did this using a 1/4" drive 13mm flex socket connected to a short (1") 1/4" extension, which was connecetd to a medium (3") 1/4" extension, which was connected to my 1/4" breaker bar. This combination was long enough to access the 13mm nut on the transaxle, and yet just clear the transaxle mount so that the breaker bar could engage the extension without fouling on the firewall. Hope that makes sense!

grant lyon · grant lyon's Garage

Recently replaced my strap with a el-cheapo 1/4" socket set from Costco for $10.00. One of those 10/11 piece you-never-know-when-you-might-grind-these-down-to-fit purchases. Surprise: no grinding necessary.