How to Use Jumper Cables for Cars?
3 Answers
The method of using jumper cables for cars is as follows: 1. Clamp one end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery; 2. Clamp the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the rescue vehicle's battery; 3. Clamp one end of the black cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery; 4. Clamp the other end of the black cable to the negative terminal of the rescue vehicle's battery or a metal part of the car body; 5. Start the rescue vehicle and let the engine idle to charge the dead vehicle's battery. The reasons why a car battery does not hold charge include: 1. Incompatible rectifier; 2. Damaged generator coil; 3. Poor connection between the rectifier and the battery or fuse wiring; 4. Battery damage causing self-discharge; 5. Faulty wiring throughout the vehicle or self-discharge after turning off the ignition; 6. The car has been parked for a long time, leading to battery discharge.
I've used jumper cables several times myself, and that roadside rescue for my friend was a real learning experience. Park the two cars close but not touching, with both engines off. First, attach the red clamp to the dead battery's positive terminal, the one marked with a plus sign; then connect the other end to the helper car's positive terminal, also marked with a plus. Next, attach the black clamp to the helper car's negative terminal, marked with a minus sign; the other end goes to an unpainted metal engine part on the dead car—never directly to its negative terminal to avoid sparks or explosion. Once connected, start the helper car and let it run for two minutes to charge the battery before attempting to start the dead car. After it starts, don’t rush to move the cars. Remove the clamps in reverse order: first the black clamp from the dead car, then the helper car's black clamp, followed by the red clamps in the same sequence. Always wear gloves and eye protection. If the battery is leaking or damaged, skip the jumper cables and call a tow truck for safety. Regularly check your battery's condition and charge it periodically to avoid a dead battery.
I think using jumper cables requires extra caution, as improper battery handling can be dangerous. The sequence is crucial: First, ensure the two vehicles are properly spaced, about half a meter apart. Then, attach the red clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery, followed by the positive terminal of the rescue vehicle. Next, connect the black clamp to the negative terminal of the rescue vehicle, and the other end to a clean, unpainted metal point on the dead car—never directly to the battery's negative terminal to avoid sparks. After that, start the engine of the rescue vehicle and wait a moment for the current to stabilize before attempting to start the dead car. If it starts, don't move anything yet. Remove the clamps in reverse order: first the black clamp from the dead car, then the black clamp from the rescue vehicle, followed by the red clamps in the same reverse sequence. I've seen people take shortcuts and connect them wrong, frying the wiring, so every step must be steady. It's best to do this in daylight for better visibility, keep a fire extinguisher handy just in case, and replace old batteries early.
