Ground wires on the firewall

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Aug 18, 2013 | 05:52 PM

ragtag

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From: Michigan

Ground wires on the firewall

I noticed two small ground cables hanging on my firewall in the engine compartment. They aren't hooked up to anything and I'm wondering what the heck they are.

Aug 18, 2013 | 06:18 PM

HardTOPJoe

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The engine block is usually grounded to the firewall by a copper strap. Not sure about the other one.

Aug 18, 2013 | 10:01 PM

Camaro 69

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From: The 'Burbs of Chicago

Those ground straps are for radio noise suppression, one to each (left & right) valve cover bolt, along with the wire loom bracket.
Those straps aren't the main engine ground, that comes directly from the battery.

Aug 19, 2013 | 08:06 AM

ragtag

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Thanks guys. I don't get any interference on my aftermarket radio so I guess I don't need them.

Aug 19, 2013 | 08:08 AM

Camaro 69

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You used to be able to get radio interference with the points & condenser distributor. Maybe your ignition has been upgraded?

Aug 19, 2013 | 12:57 PM

ragtag

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Yes it has. That must be the reason.

Aug 19, 2013 | 08:15 PM

Everett#2390

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From: Va. Beach, VA

Still doesn't hurt to hook each one up to a valve cover bolt.

Sep 2, 2013 | 10:46 AM

harley rider

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From: wichita

you can never have to many grounds.those straps are to ground the body to the subframe to complete the ground circuit.because the body is mounted on rubber.

Sep 2, 2013 | 02:06 PM

ragtag

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From: Michigan

Rick's/Ecklers has an engine compartment ground wire kit that has three small ground wires. I know that two go from the firewall to the valve covers. My question is where does the third one go?