I have a 1990 E-250 that I am trying to get running.

I am confused about which battery wire is which.

One wire is red, but is covered in black cable tubing. This wire goes to a small metal can (about 2 inches across, and 2 inches deep) mounted to the van body just in front of the battery, and on the left side (passenger side) of the battery. Not sure if this can is a solenoid, or a grounding connection. It has about 5 or six other wires coming out of it.

The other wire is blue (probably aftermarket) and runs down the right side (engine side) of the battery, and goes under the alternator.

Thnx for helping the newbie keep from zaping his electrical system.

 

Welcome to the site..

Red will (should) be the positive.. The positive+ battery postwill always be the larger diameter post for the positive cable, and best to verify on connection just in case the cable/s have been changed to another color.. Some generic/aftermaket cables can be blue, black, red for either position.. Usually pretty easy to see the diff..in diameter.. The 'can' you descibe is the solenoid.. Also, when describing locations for parts/panels ect.. The right and left is always as if you were behind the wheel.. So passenger side would be the right side..