Impala131
New member
I have a 1999 Grand Prix GTP. This might seem like a silly project to do for the hell of it, but I like learning new things hands-on and getting more familiar with different aspects of my GP. Pics when I'm done! Perhaps even a write-up.
So I've been reading quite a bit about the "alternator rewire" and the "Big 3 upgrade" and although I appreciate the idea of adding cable (thinking 2 gauge) to supplement the poor wiring from the factory, I'd like to upgrade the new, get rid of all the visible old cable (or at least get it out of sight) and replace it with larger gauge cable that takes simple and relatively short paths. I want to replace everything, including the existing battery terminals, and have it look clean and professional. I want to have 1 positive connection to the battery, and 1 negative, if possible. Not keen on pinching new connectors between the battery and existing terminal connectors.
So, before "revisions" I will certainly make from your input, here is my plan:
1. Install a cable between the alternator positive and the fuse box positive. (The alternator rewire you are all familiar with.)
2. Install a cable between the positive terminal of the fuse box and the positive terminal of the battery.
3. Install a cable between the positive terminal of the battery and the positive terminal on the starter. (Could I instead connect this cable to the alternator or fuse box, if I complete the first 2 steps, or does it require a dedicated connection?)
4. Install a cable between the negative terminal of the battery and the chassis (Use the OEM grounding point, but clean it up really nice.)
5. Install a cable between the grounding point on the transmission and the grounding point of the chassis. (If I complete step #4 first.) ((Also wondering if the starter needs a dedicated negative connection on the battery))
6. Test, and if everything is working, remove old wiring.
Now, I understand the OEM system has fuseable links. Should I put inline fuses in places to make up for the fact that I am bypassing these? I'm guessing that each of the first 3 wires I referred to should probably have one. Thoughts?
Thanks in advance for the advice. I know it's a lot to read!
So I've been reading quite a bit about the "alternator rewire" and the "Big 3 upgrade" and although I appreciate the idea of adding cable (thinking 2 gauge) to supplement the poor wiring from the factory, I'd like to upgrade the new, get rid of all the visible old cable (or at least get it out of sight) and replace it with larger gauge cable that takes simple and relatively short paths. I want to replace everything, including the existing battery terminals, and have it look clean and professional. I want to have 1 positive connection to the battery, and 1 negative, if possible. Not keen on pinching new connectors between the battery and existing terminal connectors.
So, before "revisions" I will certainly make from your input, here is my plan:
1. Install a cable between the alternator positive and the fuse box positive. (The alternator rewire you are all familiar with.)
2. Install a cable between the positive terminal of the fuse box and the positive terminal of the battery.
3. Install a cable between the positive terminal of the battery and the positive terminal on the starter. (Could I instead connect this cable to the alternator or fuse box, if I complete the first 2 steps, or does it require a dedicated connection?)
4. Install a cable between the negative terminal of the battery and the chassis (Use the OEM grounding point, but clean it up really nice.)
5. Install a cable between the grounding point on the transmission and the grounding point of the chassis. (If I complete step #4 first.) ((Also wondering if the starter needs a dedicated negative connection on the battery))
6. Test, and if everything is working, remove old wiring.
Now, I understand the OEM system has fuseable links. Should I put inline fuses in places to make up for the fact that I am bypassing these? I'm guessing that each of the first 3 wires I referred to should probably have one. Thoughts?
Thanks in advance for the advice. I know it's a lot to read!
