As I was leaving the gym on Saturday, I saw one of the members getting a set of jumper cables from the desk and assumed that he was having some trouble. Now, I am usually someone who would readily offer a hand (what goes around, comes around) but I know that these car have a very delicate electrical system, so I passed.

So, my question is are there any pitfalls to be aware of when try to start someone else's car? Obviously, +to+ and -to- but anything to be aware of or do I lower my head and walk away?

Thanks...

Mike

 

From what I know the way you mentioned should work just fine...

Just + to + & - to frame (i usually still connect to - but some people say that is not good for the car)

 

I have done it the "normal" way a number of times. No issues...yet.

 

just jump the normal way no big deal to worry about. i do +to+ and then my battery - to an engine ground on the car that needs to be started.

 

Nothing wrong with it, it's even in the manual.

 

i've used my 07 g35x to jump my 08 maxima last week because i didnt drive the maxima for a week due to the snow and the car being so low. No issues when doing it.

 

i would always help someone out just like i would like someone else to help me out when i need it

 

I've jumpstarted my Mom's car about 3 times in the past 2 years (little Hyundai Accent), and a friend's Mitsu Lancer once.

Not problems with electrical systems over the past 2 years. Just do it the normal way (google's your friend)

 

Pitfalls? Yes posibility of Battery explosion from doing it incorrectly like you suggested. So many people do this proceedure incorrectly even though it's in the book. +to+ and -to- is incorrect and can cause a battery to explode. Please read ur book to learn this the correct way.

 

You should be fine jump starting most cars on a 12 volt system. Like the previous poster stated, - to - is not a good idea. Two negative connections equals positive and that can create all sort of problems.

 

You should be fine w/ that. I jump started some random guy van down the street from where i live.

 

....

edit: Also any bare metal would do if the car does not have a specific metal brace attached to the engine for such purposes.

 

i have never had any issues and i jumped a few cars on all of my g35s

 

gtbigup - im a bit late for the party but thank you for mentioning that. people don't realize that batteries give off hydrogen gas as they discharge under load, connecting to the negative terminal can cause an explosion. most of us get very lucky since it's low odds due to being a sealed battery but it's possible. always connect to the frame. be safe!

Bob