Electric Starter Wire Cable Gauge Size (Pure Copper)

[BugleCoveTinBoat]

Does anyone know the proper gauge for pure copper (not copper clad Aluminum) for my Evinrude 28 HP Speed i Twin starter to battery cable?
I suspect it would be the same (starter, draw, cable gauge) for a 25, 28, 30, 35 or 40HP OMC twin cylinder outboard.
thanks in advance,
Chris

 

[DaleH]

Solid cable or stranded? You should only use standed AWG cable. Starter load depends on the length run BOTH ways, to and fro, to determine the ampacity of the cable needed.

I know that OMC V6 OB starters have a peak amp draw of ~ 230 once energized and ~180 sustained. I have OEM Service Manuals at the house that likely list the recommended cable sizes, but I’m not home …

 

[BugleCoveTinBoat]

Thanks for the response. I understood anything that is in any kind of vehicle should be stranded wire. I also understand that solid "stranded" wire will have more capacity than copper cladded aluminum wire. I am planning on using the OMC Red Plug for my control wires. My question is about getting the power from the battery to the engine (28 HP Outboard). I'm planning on using Jumper Cable or Welding Cable wires. the length will be less than 5' (Probably less than 3'). I do not know much about the starter motor (except its over 60 years old).
So, should I use 6 Gauge (stated good for constant 200 amps) or move down to 8 or 10 Gauge?
Again, thanks for your almost immediate response,
Chris

 

[MrGiggles]

It's a little bit of a hard question to answer by the book, loaded current draw specs for smaller motors is not usually published.

Even the big four strokes only use 4AWG, 8AWG should be more than enough for a short run.

 

[wmk0002]

I used some cheap 8awg jumper cables for my 2 stroke Yamaha 25hp. Probably not the best quality wire but I sized them based on current draw on the starter listed in my service manual and then used a basic marine amp wiring chart and run length. I figured for the cost, if they ever corrode I can easily and cheaply replace them. That said, I'm fresh water only and my motors stay in my shop whether they are on or off the boat. My motor also has a recoil starter so having that as a backup inspired me to go cheap as well lol.

 

[OldSailor85]

FWIW, if you have a welding supply place around, get welding cable.

Super flexible, very-high strand count. Buy once, cry once.

They also carry all the lug-ends and may even put them on for you. How many guys have the proper tools to crimp large cables?