How to Remove & Install the Positive & Negative Battery Cables in a 2001 Mustang

The cleaner the battery terminals and cables on a 2001 Ford Mustang, the more available voltage to the starter and the vehicles electrical system. It helps in the charging of the battery, causes better illumination and better ignition as well. Corrosion can exist under the wires insulation, thus causing severe resistance to the flow of electricity. It is entirely possible to have a good battery putting out 12.75 volts and only have 8 volts at the starter and vehicles accessories. The longer the cable, even if it's new, the more resistance, thus reducing the voltage. Purchase battery cables no longer than necessary. Most are vehicle specific, so if you request cables for your 2001 Mustang, they will be the correct length.

Instructions

1

Open the hood. Remove the negative battery cable from the negative terminal on the battery using the appropriate wrench.

2

Remove the positive battery cable from the positive terminal on the battery using the appropriate wrench. Clean the terminals on the battery with the battery terminal brush.

3

Follow the positive cable to the starter solenoid. Remove the positive cable from the top post on the solenoid by removing the nut with a wrench. Put the nut back onto the starter for now, so you dont lose it. Remove the cable from the engine compartment.

4

Follow the negative cable to the point on the engine block to which it is bolted. Remove the cable using the appropriate socket, then remove the cable from the engine compartment.

5

Install the positive cable end to the top post on the solenoid and tighten the nut snugly with a wrench. Install the negative cable on the block. Tighten the bolt firmly.

6

Route the cables up to the battery, ensuring that they do not touch the exhaust. Install the positive battery cable onto the positive battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt firmly. Install the negative battery cable onto the negative post. Tighten the terminal firmly.