LimboMan wrote:
Can anybody offer some suggestions as to my various options of running large-gauge power wires from the engine compartment to the rear cargo area? I'm planning to put a couple of Optimas in the back to power various electrical devices while the engine is off.
The power lines will be used to charge up the battery bank while driving and the engine is on. Charging will be carried out via a regulator/charger that will both control the charging current when the engine is on and act as a switch/isolator for when the engine is off. The plan is to use 0 gauge (huge!) but I'll use a lighter gauge if I can do it safely. I'm concerned that if I drain the battery bank to a fairly low voltage, the power cables will have to carry a very large charging current.
Any thoughts? Since this is a leased company vehicle, I'll have to do everything as least "invasive" (or at least "reversible") as possible...
I run 0 gauge in mine. I ran it under the car along the brake lines. From the engine compartment to about the trans i have it running through heaterhose for added protection. I think running it all through heater hose would be better though. I have it coming up though the floor in the cargo area with a water tight grommet. Take a look at my carstereo.com link in my sig. I have a few pics of it.