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Wire size and amp capacity

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Old 05-28-2010, 04:42 AM
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Default Wire size and amp capacity

Im doing the big three upgrade and im stuck in between which wire to get. KnuKonceptz makes two different types of 0 gauge, one is capable of 250 amps and the other is capable of over 300 amps. My amplifier requires 160 amps to run at full power, what do you think would work for me?
Old 05-28-2010, 06:13 AM
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How can they say a single 0 gauge wire can have more of a carrying capacity then another 0 gauge wire???

Anyway, the wire rated for 250amps will suit you just fine for your 160amp load.
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Old 05-28-2010, 06:28 AM
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Mike...check out the site. Very good stuff. I used Knu for all my wiring in the system and it'* simply amazing stuff.

It'* understandable because it'* two different wires/qualities.
Old 05-28-2010, 06:31 AM
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They can say that becuase the insulation might be thicker and less copper in the wire, I've seen it in the cheaper stuff
Old 05-28-2010, 07:54 AM
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Knu is not about just tossing insulation at it.

The 250 amp wire is CCA or copper clad aluminum. (90% aluminum) and the 300 amp wire is (version I used in 4 gauge) oxygen free copper strand.

Both products are amazing. FWIW the Fleks (300amp) is amazingly flexible. A one or so foot piece will nearly lay back on itself w/o you putting any pressure on the wire.
Old 05-28-2010, 10:50 AM
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160 amps? I hope you upgraded your alternator...
Old 05-28-2010, 12:03 PM
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When you say 160 amps, are you talking about 12V amps need to power the amp.??? If it'* the monster it would have to be to pull 160 amps, a new altenator is a must. Several Batteries a real need. At an idle or at lower speeds, it going to cause everything from the headlights to the dashlights to flicker and create resistance problems that could bring alot of stuff down. Including the heater fan. What is the RMS rating?
Old 05-28-2010, 12:05 PM
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not to mention cause the motor to stall!! got a link to this amp that your planning on using ?
Old 05-28-2010, 12:44 PM
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Not to mention, at that point, its not the Big 3 you'll be replacing. More like the Big 5.
Old 05-28-2010, 02:40 PM
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I have an eclipse ZA1200, and yes my headlights and dash lights flicker and my battery gauge will go into the red if if i turn it up to much . I will be getting a HO alternator but im doing the wiring first. And what do you mean by the big 5?

Last edited by bonny99; 05-28-2010 at 02:47 PM.


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