Extending trolling motor power cables. What gauge wire?

[roscoe]

Just picked up a new Minn Kota Vector 3x steering transom mount 24 volt motor for my little boat.

I want to install the batteries up front, so I will need to extend the power cables.
I will be installing a battery cutoff switch near the transom, and would like to add the power cable extension there, and run approximately 12 feet of cable to the battery box up front.

Maximum current draw is listed at 38 amps.

The motor comes with 6 feet of power cable of unknown gauge.
I want to add 12 feet for a total of 18 feet.

What gauge wire should I use ?
6? 8? 10?
Any down side to using heavier wire?

I want to minimize voltage drop and heat buildup.
I know how to wire things up, but not how to calculate what to use.

Thanks for your input.

 

[Kevin W]

Re: Extending trolling motor power cables. What gauge wire?

here is a link to a good chart for wire.
http://www.powerstream.com/Wire_Size.htm

It speaks for itself.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Extending trolling motor power cables. What gauge wire?

Hi Roscoe,

Here's another easy one to use: I'd use 6 gauge..

http://ancorproducts.com/Technical_information/Wire_calculator.php ] Click Here [/url]

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Extending trolling motor power cables. What gauge wire?

Ranger Bass boats use 6 ga (just read about it in their sales brochure). Nuf said.

Mark

 

[roscoe]

Re: Extending trolling motor power cables. What gauge wire?

Thanks guys, that was easy.