Wire Size

[Tom Bates]

I have a alternater hooked up to a honda motor. I have a 30 ft run to my batteries, 7200 amps and would like to know the wire size i need. Thankyou for your time.

[smurphny]

7200 Amps?

[Unicorn Dreams]

1 ton of batteries????

Hope he meant 720 AH

[Tom Bates]

Yes 720 AH, sorry

[smurphny]

Most alternators have a #12 or #10 wire but I would call the alternator manufacturer to get an answer about a long run. You might damage the diodes if you get the wire wrong. Make sure you don't cross + and - or you'll immediately blow the diodes and regulator.

[btrayfors]

I assume you have a 12-volt system.

What size is the alternator? How is it regulated? Internal regulator? External regulator?

And, what type batteries do you have...flooded, gelled, or AGM?

These are all important factors in determining the maximum load and its duration to be carried by the wire.

Bill