What size wires?

[rtpassini]

i need to know what size wiring i should get for:

Wires to run from motor to gauges
Inside the motor. they look like...16 ga?
Same with battery wires. what are those? 8-10?


is there a writeup showing the normal sizes used throughout the boat?

 

[pvanv]

Re: What size wires?

Depends on the run length and the amperage. Ancor (Marinco) has good docs. In general, for short runs, the rule of thumb is: 16AWG for up to 10 amps, 14AWG for up to 15 amps, 12AWG for up to 20 amps, 10AWG for up to 30 amps, and 8AWG for up to 40 amps. That's AWG, not SAE gauge. The SAE wires are smaller in cross-section, and carry lower limits.

Most instruments (except for non-shunt-equipped ammeters) can be wired with 16AWG, since their amp draw is low. Some instruments will require shielded wire or coax, of course. Most electric-start OB's will have 10 or 8AWG. Many trolling motors will need 6AWG or 8AWG.

Also, please use marine-grade, fully-tinned wire, with proper crimps, and adhesive-lined shrink tube. Where possible, adhere to the proper marine color codes, to make any future troubleshooting less troublesome.

 

[rtpassini]

Re: What size wires?

thats why im asking because ill be ordering some marine grade wire since no one around here seems to carry any. unless lowes, home depot, or gander mountain does.

most of these will be accessories. cd player, lights, tach, speedometer, etc.