Windlass Wire Size

[1970Columbia34]

we are considering buying a Lewmar Windlass like this.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/LEWMA...spagenameZWDVW

I was wondering how heavy of wire do we need to run? from the battery bank to where the windlass that will be mounted is about 30' total. any help would be appreciated it.

Scott

[PBzeer]

Is that total from battery to windlass and back to battery, or just one way? When choose what gauge wire, you want the "round trip" run, not just one way. Your installation manual (if it has one) will give you a chart for choosing wire size. The chart for my Lewmar V700 gives 4 gauge for your installation. If it was me, I would use 2 gauge (I oversized mine). This is for a total of 60', if you're looking at 30' round trip, I'd use 6 gauge.

[sailaway21]

PB is right and it's a good idea to oversize. You don't want the dreaded toaster syndrome to happen to your wiring. Copper being at record prices, you'll probably want to be sitting down, preferably on a bar stool, when you cost out the wiring. Look at the physical size of the wire to see how you are going to route it and then measure very, very carefully before committing to a length you need. Even then, get extra. That stuff is tough to work with and will not bend easily. btw, there is no such thing as a wire-stretcher.

[GordMay]

For wire size calculations, see “Ohm’s Law & Boats” at:
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...ht=Ohm%27s+Law
or
http://www.cruisersforum.com/gallery...age.php?i=1316

For a handy chart, see:
http://www.cruisersforum.com/gallery...age.php?i=1321