Need 50amp at the Ranch, which romex ???

smkettner wrote:
I don't think 'romex' likes conduit. Pull separate wire or get the proper bundle.

Romex is designed to not be run in conduit, and because all the wires are already wrapped up together, they tend to get even warmer inside conduit. If Conduit MUST be used, such as to protect the wires from damage, then oversize it - use 1-1/2" conduit, so that the wires will pull easy through the conduit, and not overheat.

If the barn has animals, then metalic conduit might not be allowed at all! This is because animal urine rots out metal conduit, and Romex was developed to solve this unique problem, as urine does not bother it over it's expected 30 year lifespan.

Personally I would recommend 1-1/2" plastic conduit, keep the line straight if you can, and just mount the receptacle below the panel if possible or practical. If you do desire to have it outside the door, then you can buy 90* elbows, and all that stuff.

While 3 each #6 wires will handle 60 amps (as well as 50 that you need) the #8 ground is plenty large enough. #10 is actually the minimum size required for the ground, but the price is so minute - you only need about 30' for the whole project, #8 will give slightly better protection. . . #8 supply wire is only rated at 40 amps when inside conduit with other conductors, and they combined can warm up, so the lower amperage rating.

#10 wire has a maximum fuse size of 30 amps, do not use that at all, unless protected with a 30 amp circuit breaker.

If the barn did not have it's own service drop, then it might not be getting a full 120/240 volts, and I would suggest larger wire if the distance was greater. Yet with the short distance described, #6 is fine.

Fred.