[Uhehner]

For us newbies, could you please explain what one does to "short the wires"?
I would also like to thank Capt. George and all of the other contributors who have provided invaluable information I could not find anywhere else!

Bob

Shorting the wires means connecting the two wires together so that there is zero resistance ( a short ) between them. If there is only one wire it would be temporarily connected to a grounded item such as an engine block or an item with a green wire ( bonding wire ground ) on it. The black battery cable would be attached to the engine block and be considered a ground.  It sounds like you would benefit from joining the US Power Squadron in your area and taking some of their classes. You will be amazed at what they can teach you about navigation, weather, electronics, engines etc.
Capt. George