Starter cable.

[jmc330i]

Ok, I might not explain this very well, but here goes...

On the 325i there is a big power cable that runs from the +ve terminal on the bulkhead down to the starter. This needs replacing on my mates 325i after being chewed by a (very fried) mouse.

We have taken the same power cable (from the battery to the starter) from an early 320i, but its thinner than the one from his late (1990) 325i, which is very chunky.

Will the 320i cable be ok to use on the 325i? - just need to know if its going to melt or something

Cheers

[kam-325i]

A thinner cable will have a lower amperage rating. I would just keep my eye on it, looking to get a proper 325i cable.

[jmc330i]

I figured something like that, which is why I wanted to ask.

It should only be on there for a week or two, but he needs the car for the weekend so no time to try and source a 325i cable - we just had a 320i to hand.

How come theres a difference between the 2 cables? - both are M20 engines with the same starter??

[kam-325i]

First thougt would be because of where the batterys are located.

I would think that because the 325i battery is in the boot, there is more resistance due to the length of cable, so a thicker cable is needed.

thats the only reasoin i can think of at the moment.

[Martinaston]

I'd say it's due to the larger engine being harder to crank so the motor will draw more current, should be fine as long as the engine starts first time every time. You might want to change it if the car's a poor starter.

[wildeian]

Both of the above sound about right

[jmc330i]

So it should be ok for a short term fix? Thats all thats needed, as once my mate gets back from his trip it will get sorted out.

Just as a thought - if I swap my 2.5 into to my dead 318, do you think I should use the thicker 325i starter cable or the thinner 320i cable? The battery would be staying in the engine bay as its a touring.