Thread: Extra grounding
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Old 03-07-2026, 11:46 AM   #9
djctoto
 
Drives: Chevy Camaro ZL11LE
Join Date: Jan 2026
Location: United States
Posts: 79
As a former Electrical Engineer I would like to offer the following general insight about electrical circuits that pertains to this thread.

Contrary to most intuitive thinking the ground path for a robust electrical connection is equally or even more important than the positive. While chassis grounds are often used the most effective grounding occurs in a 12v automotive application when the ground for a given circuit it tied directly back to the battery. This is why a Holley ECU and others must be connected both positive and negative directly to the battery and no where else.

This isn't often a viable solution for all circuits so chassis grounds are commonly used. In this case the use of a larger than needed gauge wire secured to bare metal is the best bet.

Running a short 2 or 4 gauge wire with properly crimped on terminals from the engine to the chassis is never a bad idea.

Also a crimped on terminal connection is preferred over soldered in automotive applications since solder stiffens the wire making it more susceptible to breaking from vibrations.
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