Sizing Battery Cable

[starfishkiller]

I am setting up the batteries in my project boat. I have access to alot of 2 AWG battery cable and for monetary reasons would like to use it. The batteries will be positioned right next to the engines. Is 2 AWG heavy enough cable for the connection from the batteries to the starters? I am talking about a distance of about 2 feet.<br /><br />Thanks<br />eric

 

[ndemge]

Re: Sizing Battery Cable

2awg is juuust fine. especially for the short duration that a starter gets used for.<br /><br />...if you need lugs, let me know.. probably have some I could drop in the mail for ya.<br /><br />2 awg at 5' length at 100 amps is a 1.7% voltage drop. Nooo problem<br /><br />You could use smaller wire... but if you HAVE 2awg.. Use it!.. Same reason I have 1/0 going from alternator to battery on my van. 160amp alternator though.... <br /><br />Have 200' of 1/0 welding cable... love that stuff

 

[bluewater19]

Re: Sizing Battery Cable

#2AWG will be plenty. how many amps does your starter pull? That size wire will easily carry 200 amps of current at 12 volts. I think the battery cables on my new boat are #6 awg. Bigger is better. The bigger the wire the less resistance you have . But that is relative. the resistance of #2 is .16ohm per 1000ft at 20 deg C.<br />resistance of standard #6 battery cable is .4ohms per 1000'. I think that you are good to go.