Forum Discussion

Almot's avatar
Almot
Explorer III
Jul 11, 2013

Can you pull 2*6 AWG through 3/4" conduit?

Need to pull a pair of AWG 6 cables from solar through the roof. When I look at some photos here, it looks like people are able to pull 2* AWG 4 through 3/4 conduit connectors. I don't have cables yet, will order when will know the exact length, and it will be AWG 6 welding cable. From what I know, AWG 4 is 0.4" OD including insulation. AWG 6 has 0.35-0.39" OD. It would be nice to use 3/4" connectors - those 1" are huge, I just have doubts. Are you guys squeezing cables to death, when routing them through the roof? Rubber insulation will give a little, alright, but is it good for cables to be pressed together, with 12-15 A current?

PS: In case if somebody is wondering what the heck I'm talking about :) , here is an old thread, see photo 8 from the bottom, it shows roof junction box. And there were other, can't find it now, also with 3/4" connectors. I know those connectors, they must be 3/4.
  • 24rules's avatar
    24rules
    Explorer
    Jul 11, 2013
    i guess i am confused why you need to run welding cables, is this for a 12 volt system or a 120 volt. 2 number 6 thhn style wires which is designed to go into conduit have a thinner coating on them will have no issue at all in a 3/4 pipe the welding cable is much thicker because of the exposure that it comes in contact with when it is used as a welding cable and also the 12 to 15 amps that you talk about is far below what a number 6 gauge wire is rated for which is somewhere around 60 amps or so
  • stubblejumper's avatar
    stubblejumper
    Explorer
    Jul 11, 2013
    AWG 6 = .39" diam X 2 = .78". AVG 4 = .40" x 2 = .80". 3/4 conduit is .75" OUTSIDE diameter Makes for a tight squeeze. Any bends or elbows would be even worse. You would probably have to go to 1" conduit.
  • WyoTraveler's avatar
    WyoTraveler
    Explorer
    Jul 11, 2013
    Just two #4 wires would leave quite a bit of space. They sell electrical lube for pulling wires through conduit.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Jul 11, 2013
    According to the electrical code, you shouldn't. It won't breath well enough to keep the wires cool at max load which will defeat the use of those big 6awg wires.
  • Tom_N's avatar
    Tom_N
    Explorer
    Jul 11, 2013
    Could you route the cables down the refrigerator roof vent??

    Or possibly along side the plumbing system vent??

    You should post the type and model of your RV.

    -Tom

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