Wire size

[Michael W]

I know how I want to install the PD 9280 in the Argosy; however, I am not sure that the 6 gauge cable will keep me and mine safe. I have two 6 volt cd2's wired in series with a 4 gauge battery wire. The 6 gauge pushes 37 amps and the 4 gauge pushes, 60 amps, and the 2 gauge 94 amps. Does this mean I have to use the 2 gauge?

[Sphere Guy]

Michael, the gauge size needed for a run of wire is determined by the voltage, amperage, type of wire and the length.

Just search "wire size calculator" for the correct wire to run.

[mimiandrews]

The wire size should be determined by the load, not by the amperage of the converter. Use the amperage of the device you wish to power and the distance from the battery or converter to that unit. Then go to a wire size calculator and find out what you need.

The rated amperage of the converter is just the maximum it's designed to "give." The loads "decide" how much they "take" through their individual wires. Each load device should be labeled with the amperage it needs. Just don't let the total of all of them (that will be on at the same time) exceed the capacity of the converter.

[Michael W]

Can I install a heavier wire than the load calls for? Say a 4 or 2 gauge cable if my load is determined to be a 6 gauge.

[daveswenson]

Originally Posted by Michael W

Can I install a heavier wire than the load calls for? Say a 4 or 2 gauge cable if my load is determined to be a 6 gauge.

Yes. Just like using a larger hose for liquids.

Dave

[Michael W]

Thanks Guys, your advice is very much appreciated.

[Jammer]

Originally Posted by Michael W

I know how I want to install the PD 9280 in the Argosy; however, I am not sure that the 6 gauge cable will keep me and mine safe. I have two 6 volt cd2's wired in series with a 4 gauge battery wire. The 6 gauge pushes 37 amps and the 4 gauge pushes, 60 amps, and the 2 gauge 94 amps. Does this mean I have to use the 2 gauge?

The PD9280 has an 80 amp rated output and therefore in theory can produce 80 amps of continuous charging current to the battery. For short runs, 6 gauge cable would be marginal as it would tend to heat somewhat and could overheat depending on the kind of cable (jacketed cable runs hotter than individual wires in open air) and the temperature rating of the insulation. For longer runs the voltage drop would result in poor charging performance in addition to the possible problems with overheating.

If you can keep the cable runs short -- a few feet -- I would recommend 4 gauge. For longer runs use the voltage drop calculator and keep the round trip voltage drop below 0.50 volt at 80 amps, at least if you want the charging current you paid for.

[Skater]

Originally Posted by daveswenson

Yes. Just like using a larger hose for liquids.

I'll add, "...as long as the wire still fits in the terminals on the converter/panel."

[daveswenson]

Originally Posted by Skater

I'll add, "...as long as the wire still fits in the terminals on the converter/panel."

Yes. And can make the bends you need.

[Skater]

Originally Posted by daveswenson

Yes. And can make the bends you need.

...and is a color you like!

Sorry, I couldn't come up with anything good to add this time.

[Michael W]

Well!!! It seems that the 4 gauge neg. from the converter will not fit in the Parallax Fuse Panel. That means the neg bat cable will not fit also. Skater, I did not read your post in time. Well, as all good paramedics say "on to plan B". Some one please advise me if I am wrong. I plan to run the 4 gauge neg from the bat to a 50 amp fuse and drop down to a 6 gauge for the panel ground terminal bus. The 4 gauge from the converter neg. will go to a ground block and be reduced to 6 gauge then to the panel.