So I just stripped the head on another side bolt battery terminal brass bolt head.

It's a new (warrantied) battery, so I have to stay with side posts.

Is there a fix or an upgrade for this?

Thanks

 

You can get a replacement bolt that will pop into your existing cable. I've done this several times over the years.
https://www.dormanproducts.com/p-32649-60307.aspx

 

You can also buy posts that screw into the side-terminals for use with regular battery cable connectors...

 

From a professional standpoint, 99% of people over tighten their battery cables. You're lucky you stripped the bolt and not the threads in the battery. Get a smaller 8mm or 5/16" wrench, maybe something about 3" long, and consciously endeavor not to over tighten the bolts.

 

What Drew said.

I use a 6-point - 6-point - NOT 12-point box-end NOT open-end wrench or socket NOT pliers NOT Crescent wrench on those. 8mm is a better fit than 5/16". Repeat after me, 6-point box-end or socket. NOTHING else. Pop quiz in the morning.

Ultimately, owner training is the only long-term cure, along with the right tools. They'll last the lifetime of the car if not abused.

 

These short little guys are my particular favorite tool for this job:

 

We use these, the brass part stays in the battery and you can remove the battery wire by removing the nut on the end. Still don't want to over tighten them, you can damage the threads in the battery .
1982-2002 Camaro/Firebird Side Mount Battery Post (screamingchicken.com)

 

That's what is in my box. 6 point reversible ratchet, and a short handle. Makes it hard to go wrong.

 

After all these years, I have ended up with far too many tools that have "GM", "Hydra-Matic", "GMPT", "GM-TAC", "SPX", "Kent-Moore", "Hughes", "Packard Electrical", "Delphi", or "Delco ________" printed on to them.
I am not "legally" permitted to sell any of the Tools or "Specialty Tools".
Anyone know of a way around this/ Loophole?

 

I have tons of "For Promotional Use Only" CDs that cannot be sold.

I put them up on ebay for free, but charge 20.00 shipping and handling. They cost less than 5 bucks to ship.

 

Use a side post with a shoulder, and it will bottom out and give a better transfer of battery power



https://www.summitracing.com/parts/aaf-all76122

 

I had the same problem with service manuals. Had several stack that I did not need anymore (if I ever did), but that I would not risk getting caught selling. Unfortunately, my garage fire took care of that issue for me.

 

Damn!
That has to hurt.