Ground Strap/Cable Connections


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By GaryT - 10 Years Ago

Hey Guys, I need a little help with my '55 Merc Montclair. Since the '55 Fords shared design features as well as manufacturing and assembly processes, can anyone provide me with the original ground connection points for these gems? Car is original 6 volt positive ground and previous owners have left their fingerprints therefore I'm not sure how the car is supposed to be grounded. #1, I need to know where the battery ground cable attaches at the engine (or frame) whatever the case may be and #2, if the frame is supposed to be grounded to the body, where is the strap supposed to be located to accomplish this? The only other ground wire that I have found is a short strap or cable secured to the firewall at one end with a self tapping bolt and the engine at the other end where it is secured under one of the throttle bracket bolts. Thanks in advance!
Gary T
By Brodie55 - 10 Years Ago
Battery ground goes to the bolt on the front of the engine that secures the dipstick. Use a star washer. There is also a ground wire from the front crossmember to the front engine steady rest bracket and the firewall to cylinder head strap you mentioned. At least on a 55 Ford that is where they are.
By miker - 10 Years Ago
Remember to clean the paint off, and use copper paste from the electrical department at your local home improvement store. Good connections are only as good as the grounds. On cars as old as ours, even the welded body panels can have a lot of rust and corrosion. If it's not a concours restoration, you might consider some additional grounds. The instrument panel and fuel sender come to mind.