Post
by Skip Faulkner » Fri Jul 14, 2000 8:11 am
> >
> > Whenever you extend your wiring, it is best to use the exact same gauge
> that
> > is currently being used. Changing gauges will change the current
carrying
> > capacity and the resistive properties of the circuit. If I ever change
> > electrical routing, or if I need to replace old wiring, I always
purchase
> the
> > same gauge with the same color combination of the insulation.
...........................>snip > Yeah, but what if the wire is over-gauged (too small) in the first place?
> Most resistance added will be at the connections where you splice in the
new
> wire. It never hurts to go to a smaller gage than before. I don't know
all
> that I should about electric circuits, (but I'm currently taking a class!)
> but I do know enough that you always want to have the least amount of
> resistance as possible in the wires, which means buying better wire, and
> avoiding unnecessary splices.
>
> Jeff
Jeff, you`re right. When I build circuits at work, our standards have us go
one conductor size larger for added lengths (if short) and for longer runs
(over 24"), we use our spec charts which base the conductor size on current
load, length of run, intermittent or constant, and if in a bundle or in free
air, regardless of original gauge , except never smaller in size. Splices
and connections should be kept to a minimum, due to increased resistance at
these points, as you stated.
I re-wired my bike a while back, and measured all the stock circuits and
runs, measured the loads and cross-checked against my conductor application
chart. The KLR650 was manufactured with the minimum size recommended
conductors for each application. Not to mention numerous splices, all to
save money, in which Kawasaki is not alone. In other words, small spikes and
surges which are normal and not damaging, will quickly blow fuses. Try
holding your high/low
headlight switch in the in-between position for a second and see how quick
your fuse blows. This harmless (as long as it`s momentary) situation
wouldn`t blow a fuse with moderate size conductors, instead of minimum.
Skip