charging wire issues

[Domsz06]

I'm realizing that the problem is the charging wire is WAY too small for the job. I'm going to switch it to an 8 gauge wire so that it's not getting so hot and burning it in half. My question is has anyone swapped out wires, is it just simple enough to just run it to the switch and that way it charged what ever battery is switched to or not? any info would be greatly appreciated.

Dom

[Boarder_X]

This post is in the middle of a topic, but if you are going to swap out a cable, for use with a second battery, do it right. Skip the 8 gauge, and go straight to either 4 or 2. I think I have 2, but was considering 1. The original is 2 I think, so Tige figured that it needed that much, for the alternator/ battery connection. Don't fix what isn't broke. Electricity is a wierd beast. Best to overdue it, and not worry VS wondering if something will burn up.

X

[Domsz06]

your original was a 2? mine is only a 12 maybe. the wire that goes from the alternator to i'm guessing the switch and then to the batteries is what i'm talking about. Now the wire from the starter to the batteries prob around a 2 size on my boat, but not the one's that are getting charged. That's why it's having all the problems. I figure a 6 or 8 will be more then enough. I've never really heard of running anything bigger at all. I know on my car when I am pushing more watts then my boat I still only have like a 10.

Dom

[Domsz06]

Ok, here is what I have found out.

AFter tracing the wire back i found out it stopped at the starter. Then from there the massive 2 or 0 gauge wire goes to the switch and batteries. Should I replace this wire with my four gauge I bought, or can I just run the original wire to the starter and then run another wire to the swtich to also charge the batteries.

I found a place that will make me an alternator for what ever size I want, but if the stock alternator is burning the wire, then a higher output will for sure do it. Thanks for any and all help guys and gals.

Dom