I have owned my XK8 for 5 years but just yesterday noticed that this cable in the boot is VERY warm...verging on hot to the touch and wonder if it's normal. There is no sign of battery drain and all else seems fine. The top large cable with the discolouration on it.

 

Barry, take both of those cables off and clean the connections off and clean the hek out of them and do the same for your positive battery one as well.
If still warm, check the fuses for a clean connection. Not good.

 

I will clean the cables and check he connections. Is this the main power cable for the vehicle ?

 

Yes and those are pretty big fuses in there, so be careful. If you have to get the car inspected anytime soon, hook up a 12V system to not loose the settings when taking the battery cable off.

 

Not only could it be the bolt-to-eyelet connection that is corroded but more likely the crimp to the cable so you may have to fit a new eyelet to the end. This needs a heavy duty crimper or if you are an expert it could be soldered .
Looking again at the photos it looks like the crimp has corroded.

 

There can also be hidden corrosion inside the cable insulation.

if I were in your shoes I’d opt for a new cable. Not that expensive and worry free.



PS no it should not be hot, or ever very warn. HOT is a sure sign of resistance.

Z

 

Starter cables are available at most auto stores in a range of lengths usually with eyelet ends .
Good call Z best way to go ..take the old one with you ..remember the old adage " any cable or pipe when cut to measured length will be too short "

 

Good thing you found this now and not when you're car is a burnt out wreck.