Wire Guage

[Julie]

hi all,
I purchased a used (80's? model) Johnson 8 Sailmaster but the charging wire is missing. The motor runs great and the alternator is charging as it should. The previous owner showed me where the wires attach (positive and ground) on the motor but did not know the gauge wire to use. I have the manual but it doesn't specify either. Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
julie

 

[Warren Milberg]

Most likely, the alternator in the engine produces about 5 amps or so. I think you could safely use 12-14 guage wire to connect it. Many years ago, I bought a boat with a similar engine. The PO had hooked up the alternator with common lamp cord and it was working well. The only reason I replaced it was the wire was not tinned and would probably corrode at some point.

 

[druid]

Is it electric start as well? If so, you'll need about 10ga or bigger, depending on the length. If it's just for charging, 14-16 would be "enough", but bigger is always better, especially if it's a long run. But outboards don't put out much charge (one reason I like inboards!)

druid

 

[Dan Johnson]

On the same motor model...

on my last boat, with a charger-only motor, I ran 12 AWG from the battery switch back to a trolling motor connector and connected the motor to the mating plug for easy removal. Worked great.