Replacing snapped-off positive wire lead on battery

Hello everyone,

In the act of disconnecting the old battery in my '83 XJ650 Maxim the metal strip that acts as the lead to the battery's positive terminal snapped off where it bolts to the battery, so now I'm out of a way of connecting my new DieHard battery to my bike.

I plan on ordering a new OEM lead from chacal in my next order, but for the time being I would like to replace it with a length of wire so that I can continue working on the bike, as some of my upcoming projects do include my need for starting the darn thing. Would it be safe for me to replace it temporarily with a length of wire from the positive battery terminal to the starter relay, and if so, what gauge wire should I shoot for?

On a side note, I noticed that the old battery, which was also of the Sears DieHard variety, still had the red exhaust cap on; the exhaust tube was never connected. What purpose do these serve and how detrimental to the health and life of the battery was the PO's laziness in not connecting and correctly routing the exhaust tube?

Thanks!

 

For the metal strip, why not just fabricate a temp replacement? Use the original as a guide for length and to drill a couple of holes.

Here's what Yuasa say about the exhaust tube:

"When a battery is charged and discharged, water contained in the electrolyte is decomposed, generating hydrogen and oxygen gases. These gases are vented out of the battery through the exhaust vent tube to prevent potentially damaging high pressure gas accumulation. Every exhaust tube comes with a small slit at each end. The reason for this slit is to release the gas, in the event that the bottom of the tube gets clogged by road debris. For this reason, it is most important to make sure the slit at the top near the battery is functioning properly. As as side note, always be sure to remove the small red sealed tube when installing the battery. Never put this red tube back on to the battery after it is activated. Gases built up in a battery that is not allowed to vent can cause serious damage, and possible injury, if the battery bursts."

We have been told.....

 

Good to know, thanks Yammadof. Makes me wonder what other surprises of ignorance and/or laziness I'll find left over from the PO as I continue to go over this machine.