installing new battery cables on '66 barracuda

[MAubrecht]

I really need some help because I've never really spent much time working on cars but I've wanted this car since I was a kid. I've been having trouble with the battery not staying charged. I've replaced the alternator and have a new battery. I was in the process of replacing the battery cables and the positive has more wires coming out of it then the new cable I purchased. I'm not sure how to complete the process.

My new cable is a solid piece w/ one smaller wire w/ connector. Can I combine the wires from the old cable that ran to the fuse box into one connection into the new battery cable? Please help. I'm trying to do most of the most myself but don't want to sound like an idiot. I need to learn!

Thanks, Mike

 

[67Dart273]

You need to detail where all these "extra" wires go. Normally, the best way to pull current off is to tap off the "big stud" on the starter relay Photos would help

 

[KitCarlson]

The original system has the main battery cable going to the starter and the #10 going to the starter relay Batt terminal. The extra wires you have, may be additions by prior owners. By using an ammeter it is possible to identify loads that may drain the battery while parked.

Things to check for getting the alternator going would be: voltage regulator, its connections including ground, bulk head connectors, amp gauge connections. There are schematics at MyMopar.com that will help identify wiring circuits. You will find them as Figure 15 in section 8-117 and figure 16 section 8-118. I have found the information to be accurate for my 1966 Barracuda.

 

[65cudalover]

having had a 66 and now a 65 restored both you should have no extra wires going to battery cables beside ground wire. It would seem the previous owner has rigged many other wires to the battery direct, it is not unusual when one cannot figure where to run wires on older cars. However it can cause other problems is not done properly and grounded properly as it seems to be the case. I had this on my 66 when I got it and restored it for driving and drag racing as a street class car, I installed a seperate wiring system for extra things like radio and electric improvement to motor as it had a 318 w/ electronic improved mopar power system. You can find this information on line or through this website in electronic section! All people here love to help and are very knowledgable!!! They helped me get started and always answer your questions straight and open mindedly!!! Have fun and good luck!!!