Automotive Battery Cable Size Chart

I recommend building cables larger than stock.

Automotive battery cable size chart.

Now choose the next largest cable size from the table below. Our battery cable is american made and comes in gauge awg sizes of 6 4 2 1 1 0 2 0 3 0 and 4 0 with 6 gauge being the smallest and 4 0 gauge being the largest. For example if the above cable size calculator says you need 3 0 sq. Download excel versions of our cable calculators from our free resources page a bonus voltage drop calculator.

In summary when selecting the correct size of battery cable you need to take into account the total maximum amperage your electrical system requires the voltage of your system usually 12 volts the total length that your cables need to be and the amount of voltage drop you are willing to accept versus the amount you want to spend. Most of the cost is the ends and labor. Car battery size chart all all how tos car maintenance cars 101 car truck mods cleaning detailing car buying car technology lawn garden othermotive winterizing your toys classic cars off roading racing community history of cars road trips sponsorships. The manufacturers make stock battery cables as small as possible but still get the job done.

Outside engine compartments the ambient temperature should generally be 20 c. Choosing the correct gauge automotive wire depends on the acceptable voltage drop length of the feeder branch circuit conductor load amperage and the ambient temperature of the compartment where the primary wire will pass through. Choose a higher ambient temperature when conductors are expected to pass through. Mm cable then go up to 3 3 sq.

For very long cables for example 15 foot long battery cables to relocate your battery go one size larger. Mm which is 12 awg.