Wire Guage Opinions??

[frdtrkguy]

I am about to re-wire my comp rig. I have always used 12 or 13 gauge wire but im thinking that I could get away with 14-16 due to the relatively low amp draw which would make wiring dig switches and stuff easier. What are some opinions?? Im running 11.1 lipo MOA dual dig and HH cobalt 500's motors.

Pro's/Con's

[Flip]

Since you are not looking for the last fraction of a volt to gain an edge, go with the smaller wire.

[86jeep]

I run 16g with berg 45t's and 11.1 volts, I cant tell any differance. I checked wire temps thay were the same as with 14g. so

[frdtrkguy]

Originally Posted by 86jeep

I run 16g with berg 45t's and 11.1 volts, I cant tell any differance. I checked wire temps thay were the same as with 14g. so

Thanks, that was what I was looking for. I was kinda worried that 16 ga. would cause my rear motor to stall more easily.

[JohnRobHolmes]

Yeah, 16awg is plenty for most setups. My concern with the smaller wire is the strength. A few bashes against a rock would cut soft 16awg, whereas 13 awg may survive.

[Espeefan]

I've always used 12 gauge, but to be honest, you could easily get away with less. Sometimes you'll find the wires on a ESC or battery pack, from the factory, are actually smaller then 12 gauge anyway. I know my brushless outrunner's leads are probably 16 or 18 gauge, and that motor is rated at 72 amps continous. I do not think you'll see much of a loss. Where it makes the difference is on the longer wire runs.

[One-eyed Jack]

Originally Posted by frdtrkguy

I am about to re-wire my comp rig. I have always used 12 or 13 gauge wire but im thinking that I could get away with 14-16 due to the relatively low amp draw which would make wiring dig switches and stuff easier. What are some opinions?? Im running 11.1 lipo MOA dual dig and HH cobalt 500's motors.

Pro's/Con's

A chain is no stronger than it's weakest link. Those little micro switches are only rated at 5 amp. If you use silicone covered wire 16 is ok. Any other cover use 14 gauge. Every component in the circuit equals resistance. Resistance is power loss.

[frdtrkguy]

Originally Posted by One-eyed Jack

A chain is no stronger than it's weakest link. Those little micro switches are only rated at 5 amp. If you use silicone covered wire 16 is ok. Any other cover use 14 gauge. Every component in the circuit equals resistance. Resistance is power loss.

Yeah, I just ordered some high strand count 16 ga. Novak wire. We shall see..