Intimidated by automotive wiring? Do you know how to determine the proper wire gauge (or thickness) you need for your job?
In this Summit Racing Quick Flicks video, you will learn how to choose the appropriate wire for your next wiring project.
As an example, you might be powering an auxiliary fan off your radiator, and now you need to figure out how to choose the correctly sized wire for the required amperage.
You need to know how much amperage the fan will draw at maximum speed and the distance from your battery or power point, to the fan’s motor, and then use an appropriate chart to determine the proper wire gauge.
You can find a reliable chart at the 1:37 mark of this video.
Additionally, this video will teach you about electrical relays and the benefits of running them, and how to properly install a single-throw, single-pole relay.
It will also reinforce how different colored wire helps you troubleshoot electrical problems, and the importance of good ground connections.
Lastly, you’ll hear about all of the tools and equipment that can help you more effectively complete your automotive electrical jobs, including multimeters, 12-volt test lights, soldering irons, shrink sleeve tubing for soldered connections, a wire cutter and stripper tool, and a multipack of connectors and terminals to ensure good connections with appropriately sized wires.
Check it out here:
I have a 1992 F150 Custom 4.9L inline 6 cylinder that when I check with the OBD-1 Meter it gives the code 556 when I have the K.O.E.O. which means the primary circuit fault. What would you say causes this code? I have put in a new relay, fuel selector switch, Could the fuel pump cause this reading?
Tony, we recommend checking the voltage before and after the fuel pump relay. There should be 12 volts before and after. Then check the voltage at the fuel pump. The point of the 12-volt drop is where the trouble is. Thanks for reading and watching!
By the way. Excellent job on the video!
Just a little addendum; For those areas where the wire will flex often, use “marine” type of wire. Strands are much finer allowing for greater flexing and it is usually pre-tinned. Recommendation on heat shrink; use double walled with mastic sealant. Keeps corrosion down.
Just one note, 30 should be your common 12+ hookup and 87 goes to your device. This keeps consistency with SPDT (single pole, double throw) where you can use either normally open or normally closed using 87 or 87a. Still very informative video.
I like that wire gauge chart that was shown in the video, is that available at Summit?
Here is the web address. You can download it and save it as a JPG file:
https://www.chromebattery.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/gaugeguide.jpg