Battery cable insulation?

Wilhelm,
I still like to solder lugs on battery cables just to keep any possible moisture out and create the best connection. In my opinion, the warning about the practice is for connection that are being flexed such as a wire running to an engine component.

8122pbrainard wrote: This is what happens if the cables aren't tinned. Yes, the OEM cable isn't tinned but that's why it's a common failure.

So rather go for the tinned cable with silicone insulation and try to keep it clear of any nasties in the bilge?

Duane in Indy wrote: Right or wrong I used welding cable. .

Wilhelm Hertzog wrote: tinned copper cables .

This is what happens if the cables aren't tinned.



Yes, the OEM cable isn't tinned but that's why it's a common failure.

I'm replacing my battery cables (too much voltage drop across them). The only tinned copper cables I can find have silicone insulation. I understand that silicone is less resistant to chemicals like fuel and oil (which the cables may well come into contact with on occasion) than PVC. But I cannot get hold of tinned copper cables with PVC insulation. So which is preferable:

1. More corrosion resistant tinned copper cables in a less chemical resistant insulation (silicone), or

2. Less corrosion resistant bare copper in a more chemical resistant insulation (PVC)?

Thanks for any advice, much appreciated.