"Glenn Ashmore" wrote in message
news:MYBjc.638$Lm3.598@lakeread04...
What size alternator? I had to run 350MCM locomotive cable to my
Prosine 2000. (10' run total) Talk about wrasslin' an anaconda in the

I only have a 100 amp alternator but haven't completed the installation. I'm
presently still using the 'silly' 30 amp OEM altenator but I haven't been
using it to charge the main battery bank.

I tried using single #2/0 cable to connect the 2000 watt inverter/charger to
the main battery buss but it was too stiff and on the recommendation of the
OEM (Exide) I ended up using #1 gage cable in pairs to the pos./neg. to gain
flexibility.

My largest load on the main battery bank, aside from the inverter, is the
anchor windlass. This circuit breaker is connected to the battery disconnect
with a buss bar and #2/0 cable for the rest of the run to the windlass
controller. Here again I am a bit concerned with the stress this heavy cable
may be exerting on the breaker terminal. Here again, I notice that the OEMs
of the breaker and the windlass use only 5/16" terminal bolt while
recommending cable as heavy as #2/0. (what would the circular mils be of a
wimpy 5/16" bolt after you dedect the threads??. I believe that is the
reason for my high resistance connection, more-so than a loose connection.)

Steve
s/v Good Intentions