Going HAM!

I always use loom especially under the hood.

I don't think it make much difference but i dont care.

 

I prefer to use plastic loom to protect the wires from chafing. I also put fuses near the battery connection on both the positive and ground in case an over zealous mechanic hooks them up backwards or to protect radio and truck in case hot wire gets shorted to ground.

 

That fuse in battery box is a must it is your first line of protection in case schnitz hit the shan!

I Always always have use the fuse.

 

radio shack or a auto parts store would have split loom and fuse holders. I also use heat shrink tubing to protect connections. Helps keep out moisture and adds support to connections.

 

Auto parts store has done me right.
As Neverready said heat shrink tubing is good too

 

Most amateur radios come with longer power cords and some are already double fused I still add fuses at the battery box. If your power run is going to be over 10ft use the next larger gauge wire for the added section to avoid voltage drop is another suggestion some follow.

 

Just make sure you guys come visit us low lifers on the CB side once in a while

 

If you ran the leads to 2 of the batteries is there a possibility you misread the post labels and got 2 grounds or 2 positives. If you can get to the bolt where the batteries are grounded to the frame you may want to use that as your ground point.