Negative Earth Caution Plate - Battery Polarity Warning Data Plate

This image shows a small yellow metal caution plate secured with four screws or rivets, photographed at close range (out of focus). The plate warns that the electrical system polarity of the vehicle is NEGATIVE EARTH (negative ground) and that correct battery polarity MUST be observed. This type of data/spec plate is typically fixed in the engine compartment to warn mechanics and owners not to reverse the battery connections, which could damage the alternator, wiring, or other electrical components. The plate contains no part numbers, dates, model designations, or other identifying information, only the polarity warning text. It was uploaded to the gallery of a 1972 Ford Ranchero, and while nothing on the plate contradicts that attribution, the wording 'negative earth' is characteristic of British-market vehicles. A reader can learn from this document only that the vehicle to which it is attached uses a negative-earth (negative-ground) electrical system and that battery cables must be connected with correct polarity when installing or jump-starting a battery.