trolling motor wiring question

[Panhead Jim]

I've got 4 gauge run from the stern to the bow. Need to connect trolling motor wires (10 or 12 gauge) to the 4. Not critical to be able to disconnect, so am considering permanent connection. I'd like to hear your thoughts on connecting the two different size wires. I've looked for step-downs and can't find any for 4 gauge. Help appreciated.

 

[Slow Ride]

Re: trolling motor wiring question

Have you checked with your local marine dealer or boating store such as West Marine or Boater's World? I cant be sure, but I'm almost certain I have seen the crimpers in very large gauges with the shrink wrap already made to the device. Why so big anyway? I have installed several large trolling motors over the years (24v and 36v) and I cant remember any of them requiring that large of wire.

 

[Panhead Jim]

Re: trolling motor wiring question

I just used the average of several wire size charts online to determine wire size. Trying to achieve zero or nearly zero voltage drop, 40 foot round trip, 40 amps max draw. I come up with 4 ga every time. Agreed?

 

[Slow Ride]

Re: trolling motor wiring question

Honestly, I have no idea. I usually just go with the size of the factory installed wire. I have NEVER had a problem! The last boat I did an install on is a 24Ft Champion Bay boat. The batteries were under the center console which made the total distance roughly 15 feet after routing the wire through the factory openings in the hull. I noticed you did not want to use any kind of connecting outlet/plug. I always use them. I did not put one on my first boat and later found that I had to go back and add it. There were just too many times when I needed to take the motor off. Examples are trips out of the jetty or over known rough bays where it would have been beat to pieces or when I traveled to fish and the boat was left either at the marina or on the trailer in the parking lot of a hotel. They are very easy to steal and as you know, very expensive to replace. I'd put one just in case. I think you will be glad you did!

 

[SumDumGuy]

Re: trolling motor wiring question

an outlet would be best/most convenient.

Otherwise you could pig tail and double shrink tube (larger length on top of shorter piece).

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: trolling motor wiring question

If you have a voltage drop of less the 10% of the voltage you would be in good shape. 4 gauge I an overkill and not needed.