Master Switch Wire Guage

[backformore]

While I'm asking these related questions, when wiring the Master switch, do you normally increase the wire size to account for longer runs, or just use the stock size? Stock appears to be 4 AWG. Depending on location of switch, longest run would be about 5 feet each way for a total run of 10 feet. Going to 2 AWG would certainly work, but is more expensive, heavier, and harder to work with.

My feeling is that the stock 4 AWG should be fine since the total electrical loads are going to be less than stock without power accessories, radios, turn signals and headlights (unless we do a night ECR but that is not likely).

Again, I'd love to hear opinions and what others have done.

Rory

[autoxmike]

Stock is fine. The only time the wire gauge comes into the equation is during starting. Wire gauge for the starter cables is sized to start the car when it is cold out and the current draw to start the car is higher than warmer temps when we typically race.

[Matt93SE]

8awg from the alternator to the switch
4awg from battery to switch
4awg from switch to starter
8awg from switch to accessories (stock fuse box)

It was all free to me since I had piles of it from my car audio days. has worked in this car without a single hiccup for about 6 years now. car still starts just fine even in sub-freezing weather with battery in the trunk (so power cable run is 12-15ft from battery to starter.)

[backformore]

Thanks for the info. Pretty much confirms my suspicions. Cheaper and Lighter is is. We don't get to say that very often

[joeg]

I use welding cable.

[Chip42]

^^^ this. affordable, avaialble, and flexible makes it a good choice. Don't be affraid to have too large a wire - it's never too big (except weight and cost) but can be too small.

another good option is Accel lightning cable, which is very flexible and light. it's Cu coated Al strands in a bundle. I run 2ga from battery - switch - starter. the lightining cable doesn't appear to be as widely available anymore though, most listings online are out of stock. maybe it's no longer being produced?