Nylon Convoluted Tubing and Wiring Specifications

The temperature ratings listed in the QVM Guidelines refer to the service temperature of the material. The service temperature is the maximum local ambient temperature that the material can withstand without failing. Builders should meet or exceed the following specifications:


Wiring

^ Ford requires that all underhood and underbody wiring added by a builder be type SXL, GXL or equivalent and be protected by nylon convoluted tubing.

^ SXL is the SAE specification type for cross-linked polyethylene insulated wire.

^ GXL is the SAE specification type for cross-linked polyethylene insulated wire with a reduced insulation wall thickness.

^ The minimum acceptable service temperature rating for underhood or underbody wiring is 275 degrees F.

^ For information, Ford uses cross-linked polyethylene wire (Specification # ESB-M1L-85) with a service temperature rating of 302 degrees F.

Battery Cables

^ SGR is the SAE specification type for neoprene or synthetic rubber insulation - used for battery positive, negative and starter cables.

^ Battery cables added by body builders must have insulation that meets or exceeds all applicable requirements of SAE J1127 Type SGR.

^ For information, Ford uses neoprene insulated cable (Specification # EST-M1L118-A) with a service temperature rating of 250 degrees F.

Nylon Convoluted Tubing

^ The service temperature rating for Ford nylon convoluted tubing (Specification # ESF-M4D1O1-A) is 230 degrees F continuous and 300 degrees F intermittent. The melting point of this material is between 410 degrees F and 437 degrees F.
^ Convoluted tubing used by body builders must meet or exceed the above specs.