What gauge wire for fuse panel

[Mel85CJ]

We are installing a new fuse panel in the helm of our pontoon boat and were wondering what the consesus is as to what guage wire to run back to the battery.

Thanks

Melanie

 

[beagleboy]

Re: What gauge wire for fuse panel

What kind of juice are you pulling dictates the wire gauge.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: What gauge wire for fuse panel

#8 or #10 is typical on a pontoon with #10 being more common. That's good for roughly 30 amps depending on length of the run. Since most pontoons have running lights, perhaps a radio, a fish finder, and one or two other small current draw items, that is more than adequate. However, if you are adding a gazillion watt stereo system, that's a different story and requires a far different wiring scheme.

 

[Chief Engr]

Re: What gauge wire for fuse panel

Here is a link to a good wire gauge chart. Calculate footage both ways.
http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/amps-wire-gauge-d_730.html

 

[jhebert]

Re: What gauge wire for fuse panel

I don't think anyone can tell you what the consensus of opinion is going to be. If you get enough opinions you can see if there was a consensus.

If you want a proper installation for distribution of 12-Volt DC power you should not pay attention to current rating of the conductor. In a 12-Volt distribution you need to pay attention to the voltage drop, and the voltage drop will become excessive before the conductor reaches its current carrying capacity. Calculate the length of the circuit, establish the current that will be delivered, choose a voltage drop rating, and select the proper conductor. If you want good voltage regulation you should calculate for a three-percent voltage drop. If the connected devices are not particularly sensitive to voltage drop you can calculate for a ten-percent voltage drop. This is not really an opinion, but good electrical practice.