Cables, General

Cables, general

General

This Service Manual is for the repair and replacement of cables in an existing cable harness. Choice of cable size and rating, cable routing for installing accessories or other installations are not covered here.

- For mounting accessories or subsequent wiring work refer to the instructions for the particular part involved.

Normal multiple strand cable

There are different types of cable. The most common is multiple strand (more than 7 strands) of copper. There are also single strand cables and minimal strand (2-7 strands). Cables have different areas and color codes.

Cable area







Specifications that give a cable area are always based on the area of the core (the copper strands). The cable area does not include the insulation.

Cable insulation (sheath)







Nearly all cables are of the insulated type and have either single or double insulation.

Some copper cables have no insulation.

Other types of cable

Shielded cables







Shielded cables are used for carrying signals from antenna and in wiring for engine control modules. Braided wire shield is wrapped around on or two conducting copper strands which provides protection against interference from electromagnetic high frequency fields.

Special tools are required for stripping, splicing and connecting shielded cables.

Twisted pair







Twisted pair cables reduce the effects of magnetically induced interference. When splicing twisted pair cables the splice points must not be made parallel.