What Cable Gauge Should I use?

[LarryA]

I plan on putting my battery for my 14' V hull up at the bow (in front of the forward seat). I have no idea what cable gauge to use to make a run to the stern as the main power feeds. I'll be running a 45# trust TM, Sonar, Running Lights, and Aux. Outlet, and possibly some deck lights. There is a possibility that I could end up with two batteries but for now I figure on one large one. To date, I've had no problems with power consumption. My concern is running too small a set of cables and overheating them and power loss with a run of about 15 feet. I'll be branching the power at the stern to the TM / Breaker, and to a switch panel for the balance of needs. For the trolling motor I figured that 6 gauge should be adequate but what about with everything?
Thanks,
Larry

 

[Specknreds]

You will need to add up your FLA (full load amps) and length of cable. 15' shouldn't affect it grossly unless your pulling right at the max amp of the wire.

Check out https://howto.altenergystore.com/Reference-Materials/How-to-Size-Wiring-and-Cabling-for-Your-System/a62/

If you have doubts, it won't hurt to increase it one size. It is very important to not undersize your wire on DC voltage(or AC).

 

[fowlmood77]

You can use jumper cables that have the proper gauge wire. You can usually find them cheaper than two lengths of individual wire. Just cut the ends and splice connections as needed.

 

[deepwater]

You will need to add up your FLA (full load amps) and length of cable. 15' shouldn't affect it grossly unless your pulling right at the max amp of the wire.

Check out https://howto.altenergystore.com/Reference-Materials/How-to-Size-Wiring-and-Cabling-for-Your-System/a62/

If you have doubts, it won't hurt to increase it one size. It is very important to not undersize your wire on DC voltage(or AC).

I'm sure this is probly a dumb queston but how do you know the ampsof a 50lb thryst TM to use the formula?

 

[Specknreds]

check out https://www.bowfishiowa.com/BAIWEBPAGE/TrollingMotors101.htm
They explain it very well.

You should be around 45 amps on a newer TM @ 50lbs of thrust.

I said this to someone else "a dumb question is one not asked".

 

[deepwater]

Thanks Specknreds that cleared it up.

 

[LarryA]

I decided on going wire 4AWG wire for the battery cables. I ordered a set today and went with paying the $4.00 to have them crimp the terminals on the ends so I don't have to. Cost was about $40 (give or take a few dollars). Worth it to me so all I'll need to do is route them and attach.