Replacing a Positive Battery Terminal

a battery terminal
  • 1-2 hours
  • Beginner
  • 10-20
What You'll Need
Battery
Wrench
Wire stripper
Terminal brush
What You'll Need
Battery
Wrench
Wire stripper
Terminal brush

When you have to replace a positive battery terminal, there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind. Here are some references and tips that can help you through the process with ease.

Step 1 - Get in Plain Sight

The easiest way to work with a battery terminal in order to replace it is to take it out completely so that you have room to work on it in front of you. You will need to take a look at the battery terminal and see what is going on. The red side is the positive side and is what you are going to be working with.

Step 2 - Get the Right Tools Ready

When working with cars or batteries and parts, you want to make sure that you are using the right tools so that you do not damage anything. A terminal brush, a wrench, and a wire stripper are all essential things to have.

Step 3 - Replace the Actual Terminal

When you are replacing the actual positive battery terminal, you will need to use the wrench to loosen the nut. This way you will be able to turn the terminal. It may take a few tries, but use the wrench to continue turning the terminal and pull it off completely. Be sure to wear gloves and goggles while you are working on this type of job. While you are working, it is important to make sure that all of the wires stay clear of the terminal so that you do not cause any problems.

Step 4 - Clean it Off

Another important thing that you will need to do before installing the new positive battery terminal is to clean it off. You can use the terminal brush, which you can find at many hardware and automotive stores, to brush everything off. The main reason for this is to make sure there is no corrosion still on the terminal. If there is and you don't clean it off, it will just continue to get worse from there on and you will find yourself having to replace or fix the terminal and battery again.

Step 5 - Put on New Terminal

Once everything has been cleaned off, you can replace it with a new positive battery terminal. To do this, first check to make sure that the wires do not need to be replaced. If they are frayed or corroded at all, you will want to replace them or if you see that they are coming unhooked, you can use pliers to move them back and secure them. You may need electrical tape to keep everything where it needs to be. Use the wrench again to put on the new terminal and tighten up the bolts. Make sure that you have the red wires going, as you are working on the positive terminal side. Then, once everything is put back together, check to make sure that it is working and in good shape.