It looks like the positive battery cable on my ’83 300SD is corroded. Is the cable a single run to the starter post or is it connected to other wires inside the bundle?

I would like to just run a new cable between battery and starter but am unsure if something else crimps into the lug on the starter end. The wiring diagrams don’t show anything else connected.

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Greg Schwall

1983 300SD - 465,000 miles

It is a single run to the starter. Then there is another wire that runs from the starter to the junction box that ties in to the bolt on the starter. I just upgraded my alternator and added new wiring from the starter and alternator to the battery.

I put on a 48" 2 gauge cable with a regular terminal at one end and a battery connecter at the other end. I also left the old cable on so I have quite a bit of current going to the starter. Probably overkill.

The cable was a bit long but I don't think 36" would reach. I bought it for 9.99 at Autozone.

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2009 ML320 Bluetec
1985 300CD
1981 300TD

Past Mercedes
1979 300TD
1982 300TD
2000 E320 4Matic Wagon
1998 E430
1984 300SD
1980 300SD

I'd recommend getting high quality marine grade wire if you can, and bigger is better on the gauge as long as you can install it easily. When I use the term "marine grade," I mean wire that is tinned copper throughout, has many fine strands instead of fewer heavy strands, and has heat and moisture resistant insulation. Ancor makes very good wire, a bit pricey, but it will last you decades. You can get it at West Marine or any good marine supply house. This quality of wire will be far more corrosion resistant. 2 gauge by itself is not overkill, IMO. I'd go thicker, myself.

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1987 W201 190D

ground cable for welders is another quality fine strand copper wire with a sturdy jacket - may be cheaper than marine - probably not quite as corrosion resistant

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95 E300 Diesel 265k and counting

Welding cable is very flexible and has even finer strands than marine cable. I don't know anything about its use as battery cable. It's great for jumper cables because it handles so easily.

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1987 W201 190D