Do I need bigger alternator cable?
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Do I need bigger alternator cable?
So ive decided im going to replace my alternator do I need to install a thicker gauge wire for 220amp alternator from the one on the stock alternator? If so what gauge wire? Stranded or single wire?
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Joined: Nov 2006
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From: North of Greenville
Check out this chart. I would suggest upsizing to a 6 gauge, personally. Stranded. Welding cable or marine grade cable make good choices. If you're in a winter salt region, you might want to consider tinned cable, but it's not really necessary.
Wire Gauge Amps Ratings for 12 volt Automotive Systems
Wire Gauge Amps Ratings for 12 volt Automotive Systems
Thread Starter
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Senior User
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Check out this chart. I would suggest upsizing to a 6 gauge, personally. Stranded. Welding cable or marine grade cable make good choices. If you're in a winter salt region, you might want to consider tinned cable, but it's not really necessary.
Wire Gauge Amps Ratings for 12 volt Automotive Systems
Wire Gauge Amps Ratings for 12 volt Automotive Systems
-Kenneth
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Joined: Nov 2006
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From: North of Greenville
You're only going to overcharge if your voltage regulator doesn't work. If "lots of idling" is the only reason for upgrading, then a 220 amp unit is way over sized. I would go with something in the 160-185 amp range and save some money while still addressing the idle time issue.
I did the same thing on my truck about 5-6 years ago and went with a 165 amp unit, and have had no issues whatsoever. At that time, the 220 amp option was at least another $100, and just was not justifiable for me. All I did was run another charge cable to my driver side battery and left the original one alone... there was no need for the larger cable with the 165 amp unit. I also installed a monster fuse in the new driver side charge cable as an extra measure of protection.
I did the same thing on my truck about 5-6 years ago and went with a 165 amp unit, and have had no issues whatsoever. At that time, the 220 amp option was at least another $100, and just was not justifiable for me. All I did was run another charge cable to my driver side battery and left the original one alone... there was no need for the larger cable with the 165 amp unit. I also installed a monster fuse in the new driver side charge cable as an extra measure of protection.
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I also have an amplifier and run the ac, and because I found the 220 amp for $210 shipped where as its originally $290 will a 160-180amp be able to run that and still charge the batteries at 750rpm?
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