Hello All, I'm a DIY wannabe mechanic who has a lot of experience with Toyotas but after my wife purchased a Mini, I've had to start learning the ways of BMW. Needless to say this has been quite the learning experience.

Recently, we did a timing chain replacement, the car started back up and ran fine but the battery bad so we shut the car off, got a replacement battery, registered it with the car, and now the car won't start. It cranks strong but there's no spark. I've heard that the braided ground strap is a common culprit and I'm looking to test that.

Has anyone ever tried using a heavy gauge (6awg) wire to check to and see if this is the issue before spending the money on a new braided strap? I know these cars can be sensitive so I just want to know if I'm going to fry anything if I try this.

Thank you!