Installing a new converter and need advice on cable size

remodelerln wrote:
I am most surprised at the fantastic response I received. It sounds like the majority is saying to run 4 gauge wire. I have no problem running new wire as it is a simple run for me, 15 feet straight run under the camper. I will probably run #4 or maybe even #2 cable and be done with it. Thank you for reminding me about the fuse, I will replace that also.

thats a really long run and for that I would call the manfacturer. Wouldn't suprise me at all if they suggest 1/0. The bigger the better for a run like that. The only thing it hurts is your pocket, one time. Westend's suggestion on Welding cable is dead on. Look for Super Exelene, it's about the best stuff out there. Personally I would also thread AT LEAST the positive, if not both through Slit Wrap for additional abrasion resistance.

Sam Spade wrote:

SCVJeff wrote:

4ga is kid stuff. Just because it might be difficult doesn't mean it shouldn't be done

Sometimes it means exactly that.

And if this comment was directed mostly at ME, I made no absolute pronouncements about anything.

then don't be paranoid about it.. It was directed to the floor to whoever is saying that the charge current is that same between the two chargers. Obviously that's not accurate

remodelerln wrote:

SCVJeff wrote:
Or upgrade the cables while you're at it and do it right

I would do that but the big question is what size cables do I need?

The best practice is to follow some type of code with electrical installations. That way, you won't have to rely on what you read from other posters with an unknown set of skills or an unknown amount of knowledge. The NEC is a good one to follow. It spells out the ampacities of conductors to be used.

I lent out my newer copy of the NEC so can't quote verbatim by section. IIRC, #8 THHN is good for 45 amps at 75C. #6 is good for 75 amps at 75C. #4 is good for 100 amps at 75C. All connections would be rated to 75C or the size of wire would be increased or ampacity lowered. The THHN would not be contained within a conduit or raceway.

FWIW, I've found that welding cable has the most strands in cross section and is the easiest to bend.

I am most surprised at the fantastic response I received. It sounds like the majority is saying to run 4 gauge wire. I have no problem running new wire as it is a simple run for me, 15 feet straight run under the camper. I will probably run #4 or maybe even #2 cable and be done with it. Thank you for reminding me about the fuse, I will replace that also.

SCVJeff wrote:
Or upgrade the cables while you're at it and do it right

I would do that but the big question is what size cables do I need?

darsben wrote:

But if the OP has the pendant he can disable the boost rapid recharge if he feels unsafe or call progressive dynamics and ask what the max recharge amps are

Read the directions......or contact the manufacturer.....GASP.

What a novel idea !!! :B

As the OP stated " I usually don't dry camp, just once in a while and my needs are simple for 12 volt, lighting, pump, refridge, furnace" WE ARE NOT DEALING WITH A LARGE BATTERY BANK.
To put over 1000 watts on the line to recharge the battery in this scenario is not realistic. At 14.4 volts would be about 70 amps +-
The draw OFF the batteries to power his lights etc will be no greater than it was previous to installing the new unit.

But if the OP has the pendant he can disable the boost rapid recharge if he feels unsafe or call progressive dynamics and ask what the max recharge amps are

SCVJeff wrote:

4ga is kid stuff. Just because it might be difficult doesn't mean it shouldn't be done

Sometimes it means exactly that.

And if this comment was directed mostly at ME, I made no absolute pronouncements about anything.

A thought on heavy power wire; has anyone tried the type used in car audio? The good stuff has a high strand count so it is very flexible and easy to route.

We have no idea what batteries he has, and we also have no idea how long or complex the run is, nor if there is a installed fuse, or its rating. You absolutely cannot flatly say that the batteries won't draw more than 45A if there is more current avaliable to do so.

4ga is kid stuff. Just because it might be difficult doesn't mean it shouldn't be done