batt side terminal thread size?

[hunter01]

Can anyone tell me the correct thread size for the bolts that connect to the side terminals of a battery? I've tried 3/8 x 16 but it seems loose.

[s10blazerman4x4]

I use an 8mm socket or wrench to loosen up the bolt that connects cable to terminal.Its a little nut and its a little tight in my 91 space wise but it works fine.

[hunter01]

Thanks for the reply, but I'm looking for the thread size.

[s10blazerman4x4]

my bad went to work for 815this morning only 4 hours of sleep still up sorry again

[coryhawkins]

I always just use "OEM bolts" from Wal-mart or Advance Auto Parts to replace any rusted side-terminal bolts (like two bucks for two of them).

[hunter01]

The reason I'm changing them is because I'm adding extra wires with lug connectors directly to the battery and I'm running out of thread to go into the battery. I found some extra long battery bolts at auto zone, but these are too long. I would just cut them but they aren't threaded all the way. I tried threading them the rest of the way with a 3/8X16 die but the're slightly thinner in diameter on the smooth part and there isn't enough meat on them to get a good thread.
I may try to use a regular bolt that's just the right length so it doesn't bottom out, with a couple of washers and see if I get a good connection. Thanks for the reply.

[muzzy1maniac]

Most hardware stores have thread "cards" in the bolt isle. It has all diff sizes of nuts and bolts imbedded in the card w/their sizes - you thread your bolt into the nut it fits a viola - now you know what the size is. Very handy. If not you can always add a few washers.