That strap was factory. Braided wires like that are often used for grounds
as they can carry a lot of current without heating up. I usually replace
that wire with #8. 

Dennis 

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
neil n
Sent: Sunday, May 06, 2012 11:39 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Engine Bay Negative Strap Questions. 1988 Westy. PICS.

Hi all.

Amongst other things Vanagon, cleaned up some grounds today. They were
green but unenvious. Just plain out of sorts.    ;^)

In Bentley I see "Ground Connections"  12  "in engine compartment left"  and
18  "on engine block" but.....

In assuming this strap was stock (2 pics starting here showing to/from
connections. Look for yellow arrow):

https://picasaweb.google.com/musomuso/New1988Westy#5739625339124636370

I replaced it with a chunk of #12 wire.  (and thinking now maybe a stranded
wire wouldn't wear well in this application)

That corroded strap doesn't appear to be OEM and I can't see it anywhere it
Bentley.

Is this strap stock? If not, any harm in have it there? (engine management
sensitive to the added negative to frame wire?)

Seems the PO might've gone all "belt and suspenders" installing that
negative connection.

Enjoying my venture into WBX territory,

Neil.

--
Neil n

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Vanagon VAG Gas I4/VR Swap Google Group:

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s