GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

When you replace a battery cable, use a replacement cable that has the following specifications that are equal to the specifications of the original cable:

    • Type
    • Diameter
    • Length

Additional feed wires sometimes attach to positive cables. Additional ground leads sometimes attach to negative cables. Route the replacement cable in the same manner as the original cable was routed.

Positive Cable Removal Procedure

  1. Tilt the cab. Refer to Cab Tilting in General Information.
  2. 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.

  3. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

  4. Object Number: 227242  Size: SH
  5. Disconnect the positive cable from the starter solenoid.

  6. Object Number: 215054  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the positive cable from the Maxi-Fuse® block.

  8. Object Number: 215049  Size: SH
  9. Remove the following components:
  10. • The positive cable clamps
    • The tie downs
  11. Remove the positive cable.

Positive Cable Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 215049  Size: SH
  1. Install the positive cable.
  2. Ensure that the positive cable is installed to the original positive cable routing.

  3. Install the following components:
  4. • The positive cable clamps
    • The tie downs

    Object Number: 215054  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.

  5. Connect the positive cable to the Maxi-Fuse® block.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the positive cable to Maxi-Fuse® block bolt to 9 N·m (80 lb in).


    Object Number: 227242  Size: SH
  7. Connect the positive cable to the starter solenoid.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the positive cable starter nut to 21 N·m (16 lb ft).

  9. Connect the negative battery cable.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the top post terminal nut to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).

  11. Lower the cab.

Negative Cable to Frame Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 204733  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 negative battery cable from the battery.
  2. Connect the negative battery cable from the frame.
  3. Disconnect the wires from the negative junction block.
  4. Remove the negative junction from the frame.

Negative Cable to Frame Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 204733  Size: SH
  1. Install the negative junction to the frame.
  2. Connect the wires to the negative junction block.
  3. Connect the negative battery cable to the frame.
  4. 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.

  5. Connect the negative battery cable to the battery.
  6. Tighten

        • Tighten the top post terminal nut to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).
        • Tighten the negative cable bolt to frame to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

Negative Cable to Engine Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 204739  Size: SH
  1. Disconnect the negative cable from the frame.
  2. Disconnect the negative cable from the engine.

Negative Cable to Engine Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 204739  Size: SH
  1. Connect the negative cable to the engine.
  2. 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.

  3. Connect the negative cable to the frame.
  4. Tighten

        • Tighten the negative cable to frame bolt to 28 N·m (21 lb ft).
        • Tighten the negative cable to engine bolt to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).