Minn Kota circuit breaker wiring

[Deadmeat]

My knowledge of electricity is limited to changing a light bulb if it goes out and calling an electrician if the new bulb doesn't work after that, so I need some help here. My boat got wired (not by me, obviously) with 6-gauge wire for the trolling motor and I just got in the recommended Minn Kota 60-amp circuit breaker yesterday. What I need to know is this: Do I need to stay with 6-gauge wire when wiring from the positive terminal of the battery to the circuit breaker or can I go smaller? The smaller wire is easier to work with, but if it could present a problem in protecting the trolling motor I won't use it.

 

[Captain Ahab]

I suggest staying with the 6 gauge wire - the larger teh wire the more efficient it will be. Also, smaller diameter wire will get hot - thereby loosing some power and possibly melting and shorting out

 

[Deadmeat]

Many thanks. Just what I needed to know.