Are there any gains to be had from installing a grounding kit in our 4th gen cars? Specifically, a '96 GXE.

~THT

 

What is a grounding kit? Like, a body kit surely not electrical...?

 

Yes, he's talking about an electrical grounding kit. Some people claim a little torque (I'm not sure how though), but mostly the electrical system may run a little better. If you have a large sound system, or many accessories, you may notice a difference. Also if you do a good job, it can help dress up the engine bay.

 

It is extremely important to have good grounds. But just as important is to have clean contacts on all electrical connections. I would not think that a 4th gen max would have many problems with it's electrical connections though. I would like to see a dyno show that some "kit" is going to increase performance in any measurable amount. Sure, if you have a large sound system like gibby stated. Otherwise, clean your contacts with a wire brush and possibly put on some dielectric grease.

dan

 

The gains you'll see is a better electrical system, period. Until someone shows proof that you get horsepower from a ground kit, I don't buy it.

They can be found on eBay pretty cheap (less than $30 plus shipping).

 

deamonspawn is right, think of it this way. If it is not broken do not fix it. You hear old timers say this constantly and it is true. Why put money into something that is not broken and you will not benefit from. Sure you might have a "better" electrical system but think of that in this light. If you are out hunting for rats do you grap a shotgun or a mouse trap/cat? What you have obviously runs the car just fine. I am tired of seeing these rice mods from morons trying to create a market where there does not need to be one. Do not waste your time, spend the 30 bucks with another 30 on taking your g/f out to dinner. God bless

dan

 

Last time I was at budget exhaust I asked them about a ground kit, and they referred me to a local guy who throws em together for a lot cheaper than most of the kits around. He also stated "Yeah, the stock grounds on the maxima are sh*t".

Acouple of months later, my car started having severe electrical problems. It would start overheating and then return to normal, and repeat. It would flash the service lights, and even started dropping 4th gear (overdrive) while cruising on the highway. I took it to an electrical shop, and they found that the stock ground wiring was registering 6 ohms of resistance. Needless to say, I coughed up the extra dough for the ground kit cause the local guy was out of town. The car returned to normal, as well as having much smoother acceleration and shifting. It felt a bit faster but the butt dyno isn't very reliable.

If your noticing electrical issues, definately get one. If your ground spots are 100% rust free and still good looking though, it's probably not necessary.

 

Dan has the plan. Keep it clean and a little dielectric grease never hurts.
I ran an extra ground to the frame and body when I installed the Optima battery. Cost me $5.00.
After installing audio & video on and off for over 15 years, keeping it clean and simple always works the best.