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size of battery cable

A

amo

Member
I converted a 6 volt to 12 volt system. I had large cables on with the 6 volt system. I need to replace the cable from battery to starter. Does it still be a large cable or can i use a smaller one as it is 12 volts. Thanks Amo.
 
Sure, at 12 volts its possible to "get by" with a smaller cable as theres typically less current draw......

BUT IT SURE WOULDNT HURT IF YOU USED A BIGGER CABLE.......

You dont have the old cable you used for 6 volt???? If so Id use it even if its oversize overkill

I recommend at least 0 better yet 00 for 6 volt and 1 Gauge (but again bigger dont hurt) for 12 volt.......

DO NOT use any Wal Mart specials 4 gauge

John T
 
I generally use 2/0 cables on 12V tractors. Heavier things like truck engines or big starters may want a 4/0 cable.
If you can physically fit a larger cable, do it. You'll never regret it... especially on a cold morning.

Rod
 
I have the cable but i had one that had one of the add on ends and keeps working loose. Thanks
Amo
 
2/0 is pretty common. I did some cables in 1/0 on a bigger machine and I wish I used the 2/0. It would be plenty for a smaller tractor though.
 
Well, in theory a 12 volt system should only need about a quarter of the cross-sectional cable area as a six volt system. So that's a couple of wire gauge sizes. But bigger never hurts.

Before you replace the cable, see if you can get a solder-on terminal clamp for your existing cable.
 
You can buy some of the better quality higher current rated ends similar to what semi trucks use or buy one you can solder on or take it to a battery/welder shop n let them attach it is even better......

You wont regret 0 or 00 Gauge even if smaller(like No. 1) would get you buy at 12 volts

John T
 
When it comes to battery cables to the starter, bigger is better. Starters draw a lot of current and you want the starter cable to be a minimum resistance which implies the diameter shoiuld be as large as practical. 0 to 2/0 is really good. If you have a series wound 6V starter, it'll draw double the current at 12V as it would as 6V. Do not use a smaller cable.
 
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