GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Battery Cable Replacement (Positive Cable)

Removal Procedure

Important: The new service cable is only available as a multiple lead cable, requiring replacement of both positive cables.


    Object Number: 48462  Size: SH

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the battery negative cable from the battery.
  2. Disconnect the battery positive cables from the battery.

  3. Object Number: 640489  Size: SH
  4. Remove the bolt attaching the cable harness clip to the body rail.
  5. Disconnect the cable harness clip from the front of the camshaft cover.
  6. Remove the intake manifold. Refer to Intake Manifold Replacement in Engine Mechanical-4.0L and 4.6L.
  7. Disconnect the battery positive cable from the starter.
  8. Remove the battery positive cable from the vehicle.
  9. Remove the engine splash shield.

  10. Object Number: 48461  Size: SH
  11. Remove the generator output BAT terminal nut and disconnect the battery positive lead from the generator.
  12. Remove the bolts attaching the cable harness clips to the engine frame.
  13. Disconnect the positive battery cable from the underhood fuse block.
  14. Remove the battery positive cable from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 640487  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  1. Place the new battery positive cable into the cable harness clips along the engine frame.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the cable harness clip retaining bolts (3) to 6 N·m (53 lb in).

  3. Connect the battery positive cable (1) to the underhood fuse block.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the battery positive cable to underhood fuse block nut to 11 N·m (97 lb in).

  5. Connect the battery positive lead (4) and install the generator output BAT terminal nut.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the generator output BAT terminal nut to 12.5 N·m (111 lb in).

  7. Install the engine splash shield.
  8. Connect the cable harness clip (5) to the camshaft cover.
  9. Connect the battery positive cable to the starter.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the battery positive cable to starter terminal nut to 10 N·m (89 lb ft).

  11. Install the intake manifold. Refer to Intake Manifold Replacement in Engine Mechanical-4.0L and 4.6L.

  12. Object Number: 640489  Size: SH
  13. Install the bolt attaching the cable harness retainer to the body rail.
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the cable harness retainer bolt to 6 N·m (53 lb in).


    Object Number: 640486  Size: SH

    Important: Clean any existing oxidation from the contact face of the battery terminals and battery cables using a wire brush before installing the battery cables to the battery terminals.

  15. Connect the battery positive cable to the battery.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the battery cable to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).

  17. Connect the battery negative cable to the battery.
  18. Tighten
    Tighten the battery cable to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).

Battery Cable Replacement (Negative Cable)

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 48462  Size: SH
  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Disconnect the ground from the radiator tie bar area.
  3. Disconnect the ground on the engine.

Installation Procedure

  1. Connect the ground on the engine.
  2. Connect the ground to the radiator tie bar area.

  3. Object Number: 48462  Size: SH
  4. Connect the negative battery cable.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the negative battery cable bolt to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.