Years ago when I still turned a wrench, the Snap-On dealer made a deal by throwing in a set of Snap-On jumper cables.

I assume they are US made, are at least 16 feet long, flexible when below zero, and have started many vehicles that other cables and jump boxes failed on. They are heavy, big, and I keep them in a crappy large briefcase.

I'm not so sure that copper clad aluminum is that great. Fine strand heavy gauge pure copper would probably be better.

quote:

Originally posted by 1s1k:
If anyone wants a deal I just got this Rural King ad in the mail.

Another vote for a jump box, instead of cables.

https://www.amazon.com/GOOLOO-...table/dp/B0748D8KT6#

I'am told that owners of newer vehicles should consult their owners manuals , prior to using anything,
either cables or boxes.

Automotive computers are pretty expensive and some have specific procedures to follow.

quote:

Originally posted by dynorat:
... They are heavy, big, and I keep them in a crappy large briefcase.

That is a clever storage solution. I keep mine in a milk crate.

quote:

Originally posted by TRIO:

quote:

Originally posted by dynorat:
... They are heavy, big, and I keep them in a crappy large briefcase.

That is a clever storage solution. I keep mine in a milk crate.

That’s what I use. Have no idea where I got the milk crate from.

Having worked in the Dairy industry, you can't do that. Legally, at least. I did that until I needed the milk case for other stuff. They also make good seats until you need to put the cables away.

Having not done so myself, I'm in the make them yourself camp. Doesn't take a whole lot of mechanical ability. The welding cable can be bought used. The clamps are better bought new.

The cables I've been using for the last 35 or so years came from a Jeep parts swap meet. Some fool was selling them. I have no idea how long they are, but long enough. Regardless of how the vehicles are parked, long is better. Guess I need to go find them for a check up, 35 years is long enough. No need for new cables. Copper is good, and you can often get your purchase price back. Maybe 50 years we'll try.

The cable is just wire. Thicker is better. Much thicker is much better. Imagine the longest distance you think you'll need, then add maybe 10 feet (x2). Used cable will work as well as high dollar new stuff. If you paid scrap price for it, it'll still bring scrap price tomorrow. If some idiot runs over the clamps, they can be replaced, too. Just look for the small ones as seen on telephone wire, or commercial "booster" cables. Make your own, no complicated electronics involved.

I don't advise long term "borrowing" from a milk supplier. I bought a milk crate from Home Depot for about $6.

Polar wire

I believe these are made in Alaska

I was forced to take off work today or lose vacation days. This allowed me to have a road trip. Went to Deka factory sales. Prices were not as good as online, but I figured difference was small enough to go ahead with the purchase. Bought their 1/0 20' cable set (04424). Makes my older decent set seem like junk in comparison.

I was considering the Polar brand item, or even making my own as suggested. I figured I would support my local industry buying from Deka.

These look durable enough to pass on after my demise.

Amazon Prime with free returns has the...

15 Foot 1/0 AWG 0 Gauge Heavy Duty Jumper Cables Booster Set by Spartan Power - 1/0 AWG, 15 Foot Made in the USA.

I do have two jump boxes, one old school big box with built in air compressor (very handy) and one of the new style, an Audew 2000 amp.

I also have a couple sets of long fairly heavy gauge cables that both have clamps that have bit the dust. I used to use the oldest set as my loaner set but both sets are now useless.

Before I just throw them away I thought I might replace the clamps if it makes sense economically. Any recommendations for good replacement clamps?

quote:

Originally posted by cparktd:

I also have a couple sets of long fairly heavy gauge cables that both have clamps that have bit the dust. I used to use the oldest set as my loaner set but both sets are now useless.

Before I just throw them away I thought I might replace the clamps if it makes sense economically. Any recommendations for good replacement clamps?

Yes, your local welding supply store. In fact, they will put them on your cables. They have a press especially designed for that. Professional they are.

quote:

Originally posted by OKCGene:

quote:

Originally posted by cparktd:

I also have a couple sets of long fairly heavy gauge cables that both have clamps that have bit the dust. I used to use the oldest set as my loaner set but both sets are now useless.

Before I just throw them away I thought I might replace the clamps if it makes sense economically. Any recommendations for good replacement clamps?

Yes, your local welding supply store. In fact, they will put them on your cables. They have a press especially designed for that. Professional they are.

Interesting tip. I didn't know that they would do that task.

quote:

Originally posted by cparktd:
Amazon Prime with free returns has the...

15 Foot 1/0 AWG 0 Gauge Heavy Duty Jumper Cables Booster Set by Spartan Power - 1/0 AWG, 15 Foot Made in the USA.

If I didn't have Deka local to me, these were on my short list to consider. That is a decent price.

Ok, took another look at the cables that I bought from Deka.

A few things to note. There are two cables, one black and one red, not joined together at all. The cables are marked as welding cables and made in USA.
The clamp is of an unusual design. It has a protusion for gripping side post batteries. Also, one jaw and protusion are copper sheet metal, and remainder of clamp is copper plated steel metal.

Just thought I'd mentioned details of the Deka set in case others are considering these.

 
I carry a set of 15ft Spartan #2 AWG in my truck. Excellent Made in USA quality. $100 at Amazon. The Spartan 15ft #1 AWG are $148 at Amazon.