Why are the Cub battery cables so darn heavy??

Alec

Alec

Active member
The primary (negative) cable that runs from the battery to the starter is VERY heavy - probably a #1 or maybe a #0.
It seems excessive. The cables on my late model F150 are not nearly so heavy.
Does the Cub starter draw a lot of current or maybe it's because it's 6 volt??
Oddly, the secondary cable (positive) running to ground is not such a heavy gauge.
 
Six volt takes a very heavy cable on the primary VS a twelve volt. A lighter cable will cause starting problems on a 6v. Your set up is correct.
 
For the same power load, a 6 Volt supply will require double the current of a 12 Volt supply -- hence the heavier 6 Volt cable to minimize voltage drop in the cable.
 
oem is 2 awg. people put 1 and 0 but anything bigger than 2 does is very tight fit between the clutch and torque tube
 
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Alec said:
Oddly, the secondary cable (positive) running to ground is not such a heavy gauge.
Click to expand...
Hi,
The ground cable should be number 2 cable, or bigger also.
They also sell ground straps. TM Tractor Parts has them.
I sent you a message, you get to it at the upper right of the page.
 
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Glen said:
Hi,
The ground cable should be number 2 cable, or bigger also.
They also sell ground straps. TM Tractor Parts has them.
I sent you a message, you get to it at the upper right of the page.
Click to expand...
I use the ground straps and use the bolts at the bottom of the battery box for a better ground location than the sheet metal of the box.
 
OK. I've done some experimenting.
You're all quite right that 6v requires heavier cable than 12v for the same load.
I put a 2 AWG on the positive post (running from battery to starter). It's over 5' long.
And a 6 AWG on the negative post running only about 2' to a good ground bolt.
I then ran the starter with the ignition disconnected for about 10 seconds.
The 2AWG cable was cold to the touch. The 6 AWG cable was very warm. I suspect it would have burnt in a short while longer.

So, 2 AWG it is for both cables!

I also agree that a good ground bold is important rather than just a bolt in a sheet metal part.
I originally used one of the seat bolts but I think I'll go to a rear end bolt close to the battery box.
Of course cleaning the spot on the rear end & the bolt & using a shakeproof washer is mandatory.

I also rebuilt the starter switch.
I know! I know! They're only $10 from TM but it's a 2 week wait so I fixed it myself.
All cleaned, new Teflon washers & nuts & shakeproof washer.
Like new!!

Thanks everyone for your help.
 
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