[AT] Soldering battery cable

[Howard Fleming]

I would take it to some one that can crimp the ends on the cable for 
you.  An electrician or a welding shop should have the necessary tool to 
do the job.  You might be able to find a cheap (hammer operated one) at 
an auto parts or boat/marine supply store.

The last time I made up a battery cable (for a 84 VW Vanagon), I crimped 
the lug on the end that attached to the starter, and used a universal 
battery clamp on the battery end.

Howard

Dean Vinson wrote:
> I'm trying to make a new main battery cable for the M.  Got some 2/0 copper
> cable and some heavy-duty lugs, which are tinned with something so they look
> kind of silvery rather than copper.  Can I solder these together?
> 
> I've got one end dry-fitted together, no flux, and tried to carefully heat
> it with a propane torch until it'd melt some standard rosin-core electrical
> solder.  Doesn't seem like the solder wants to flow, even into the copper
> strands, just beads up, so I'm afraid I'm making it too hot or I don't have
> the right materials or something.  Figured I'd better ask for advice before
> I screw this up.  Any help?  Should I use flux?  Take it to an electric
> shop?
> 
> Dean Vinson
> Dayton, Ohio
> www.vinsonfarm.net