Ground Cable Failure

[Billy]

Greetings again fellas. 
 

Following an hour long trip on perfect conditions I arrived at my destination, stopped the car and ten minutes later tried to re-start it.  Only a click came. I charged the battery fearing an alternator issue, rocked the car in gear in case the starter had jammed and nothing. Just a click.

 

Close to the starter motor on the left hand side of the block however, I noticed a black wire, which I traced back to the battery, was hanging loose. I am assuming my problem is that this is an earthing cable which has vibrated loose and stops the starter from getting enough juice to crank the motor.

 

If so where might I get a replacement bolt for the wire? I am guessing that the bolt might be of a specific material, thread etc.
 

many thanks in advance?

[wdb]

If the only thing you need is a bolt, any bolt of the appropriate diameter, thread, and length will do. I'm afraid I can't help you with specifics like those but perhaps a fellow 420R owner can. You'll probably want a flat washer and lock washer as well. Also since it seems to like to fall out, perhaps a drop of blue loctite on the threads.

 

EDIT: And, yes, a disconnected ground cable will likely prevent starting. In fact attempting to start the car might fry other wires that may inadvertently be making a ground connection between the battery and the starter.

Edited November 23, 2024 by wdb

[7Westfield]

2 hours ago, wdb said:

EDIT: And, yes, a disconnected ground cable will likely prevent starting. In fact attempting to start the car might fry other wires that may inadvertently be making a ground connection between the battery and the starter.

I've seen an MGB fry the throttle cable