How to Install Grounding Straps
A grounding strap is a metal strap that attaches to a metal part. It leads current away from an area to prevent corrosion from stray current or keep fragile electrical equipment safe. Purchase a grounding strap that is designed specifically for the equipment to which you're attaching. Take care when working with electrical equipment and make sure there is no current leading to the installation area before attaching the grounding strap.
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Instructions
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Attach one end of the grounding strap to an available screw or bolt on the metal part. Remove the screw or bolt; fit the loop on the end of the grounding strap around it and tighten it securely in place with a screwdriver or Crescent wrench. Attach the grounding strap in an unobtrusive place with a self-tapping screw if there is nothing else available.
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Run the grounding strap to a piece of grounded metal, or one of the equipment's other ground wires if a section of grounded metal is not available. Do not let the grounding strap touch any other metal parts and do not pull the strap taut. Keep the strap away from any moving parts.
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Attach the second end of the grounding strap to the grounded metal in the same manner as the first end. If it is connecting to a ground wire, disconnect the ground wire and thread it through the center of the strap end. Twist the ground wire securely around the strap end, with at least 1/2 inch extending out. Reattach the ground wire.
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Tips & Warnings
Most equipment will have a part specifically designed for grounding. In electronics, this is called a ground bus, but other equipment can have other names. Check the equipment's owner's manual for directions on where to find a grounded part.
Grounding typically refers to directing excess electricity into the Earth. Marine equipment and other objects that cannot feed electricity into the ground have to use special parts that are designed to replicate this.
Electricity is very dangerous. Be absolutely sure there is no electrical current running to a piece of metal before touching it. Check and double-check circuit breakers and power switches.
