Solar Connectors 8 AWG and 10 AWG MC4 connectors

Question

OK, another question...My RV is pre-wired with 8 AWG. I have Renogy solar panels, and connectors. The MC4 connectors are for 10awg or 12awg (see  http://www.renogy-store.com/MC4-Male-Female-Cable-Connector-p/cnct-mc4.htm). Suggestions? I can't even find 8AWG MC4 connectors. I see pre-built lengths of solar wire with MC4 connectors on them on Amazon, but my RV is already wired with 8AWG, so I was hoping to use that. Is it safe or even possible to use 8AWG and put it into a MC4 connectors that are made for 10 or 12AWG?

ca_traveler · Answer

Just add a 8ga to 10ga connector and short length of 10ga to the MC4. You are fortunate to have 8ga wiring.

westend · Answer

Wire jacket size determines MC4 usability. Connectivity----The manufacturer Wire termination to your existing RV wiring may be better handled by using a termination strip or combiner box. A recent thread pictured a two post wire termination strip that fits below a refrigerator vent. Don't know where your RV wiring exits the roof.

23mikey · Answer

Look for a inline wire reducer that you can use to transition the MC4 connector wire to the 8AWG cable right at the solar panel.

Did your pre-wire package include a roof mounted combiner box? If the run from the panels to the roof combiner box is short, you may be able to get away with using the MC4 cabling to the box and then the 8AWG from the combiner box to your solar controller & batteries without a significant voltage drop.

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Solar Connectors 8 AWG and 10 AWG MC4 connectors

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