(this is how all Corvettes are wired)
My C2 Corvette has a ground that attaches directly to the starter retaining bolt.
Yes, it's stock. "All" can be a tough word on this forum.
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I have never seen a fuse between the battery and the starter. Doesn't mean they don't exist just never observed one installed. With a typical draw of 200A to 400A and a surge the instantaneous load can be double that. It would require a huge fuse. None of the OEMs use fuses and you shouldn't need one either. Just be careful and retain the wire and ends like a pro and you will be fine. You can get excellent cables made at most welding shops.