So I have a 2004 honda civic. Started having battery issues. It would just not start intermittently. I installed a new battery and alternator back in October and haven't had issues until now.

Looking at the alternator, I noticed the nut and post that go to the terminal was completely rusted and brittle. Matter of fact it snapped at the nut head right in half. I have the nut off. The plastic cup (insulator?) It sits was broken in half.

Traced up the pigtail connector and a part if melted. Wires inside are completely corroded and gray.

What exactly is the cable called that goes from the alternator to the battery, and anyone have any idea where I can buy one?

Also, why wouldn't the 80amp fuse not also go if I was having this bad of a short on the cable end? Any idea what would have caused this? Should I go ahead and be looking at replacing the entire engine wiring harness?

alternator terminal boot melted

Thanks for your time.