Hello Everyone, Currently I am using 1G cables for the Alternator to the starter solenoid and the positive battery terminal to the starter solenoid. I am now unable to find a starter solenoid that has a long enough pin to hold both of these connections and the other wires. So which one cable would be better to scale back to a higher gauge so I can fit everything on the solenoid pin, battery or alternator? I should add I am using a one wire alternator to the starter solenoid. Thanks!!
I assume you mean 1 AWG cables? If so, why so big? Is your battery in the trunk? What is the max output of your alternator?
Its a 100 Amp alternator. Battery is still in the engine well. There was already a 1AWG ground wire form the solenoid to the starter. So i figured i'd use the same gauge on the others. Can I go to 8AWG for both?
Derating the ampacity of the alternator cable due to under hood temperatures (I used 200* F) you would want 6 AWG wire. If you don't have AC or other fairly continuous large load 8 AWG would probably get you by. 4 AWG or preferably 2 AWG for the starter cable. The old starters are not very efficient and typically draw more current but it's a very intermittent load so you can get away with a smaller cable than needed for constant loads.
I have no A\C or any other power drawing accessories. No power steering, power brakes or even a working radio. I have the original in the car juts not hooked up. I will try an 8AWG alternator cable. Any suggestion on the positive batter cable. Can I move to a higher gauge there as well?
