Optimax Earth Strap

Mick Balch · 14 August 2009, 20:49

For the second time Ive had my optimax 150 go down, fortunately whilst out with another RIB so an easy tow back to Northney. Thanks to Sea Start for getting someone out in just on the hour!

So whats the problem? The nut holding the earth strap / line which comes from the battery and fixes directly to the block had worked loose again, thus breaking the contact hence no engine power, no trim but all other electrics OK.

This is the second time its happened, any ideas on the best way to hold this vital nut in place, spring washers, star washers, locktite???

Thanks Mick.

PeterM · 15 August 2009, 00:34

Drill it & put a split pin through..................if its good enought to stop the wheels falling of the trailer it should cover this.

Mick Balch · 15 August 2009, 21:22

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blackroady

Drill it & put a split pin through..................if its good enought to stop the wheels falling of the trailer it should cover this.

Thanks but that aint gonna fix it, its hard enough to get to with a straight forward socket drive, a drill wont go any where near it. I think i'll try a new spring washer with some kind of thread lock without hopefully insulating the bloody thing.

Mick.

PeterM · 15 August 2009, 21:32

Is there enough thread showing to get a second nut on top to lock it up ?

Mick Balch · 15 August 2009, 21:45

Quote:

Originally Posted by Blackroady

Is there enough thread showing to get a second nut on top to lock it up ?

No, its neatly fixed like all the others and has the obligatory factory 'resin' spray job, not much spare thread although it might be enough to take a couple of turns to make sure.

I'll have a close look now its at home and let you know what fix I used. If I get it wrong we'll find out on the way to St Vasst.

Thanks Mick.

jyasaki · 16 August 2009, 00:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mick Balch

So whats the problem? The nut holding the earth strap / line which comes from the battery and fixes directly to the block had worked loose again, thus breaking the contact hence no engine power, no trim but all other electrics OK.

This is the second time its happened, any ideas on the best way to hold this vital nut in place, spring washers, star washers, locktite???

Stainless Nylock nut (additional star washer optional), with red Loctite threadseal.

jky