Topic: Kayak Power Source

[Papa]

I have a 798 CI SI.
 I put it on my kayak and I have about 8 foot of wiring from the battery to my unit. I used 22 gauge wiring because it was close to the same size as the power cable that came with the unit, it looked like it to me.  I have the inline 3 amp fuse, I also have a mercury tilt switch in line also, just in case I were to turn over, to keep it from shorting out.
I have read some of the discussions on this forum about wiring for units.  It has got me confused and concerned now.  My question is the wiring that I used OK?  Or do I need bigger wiring.  I have nothing else connected so interference shouldn't be a problem.  My battery is an 8 amp hour battery.

[sonar2000]

PaPa...you should be fine on the Yak.  But if it is not a lot of trouble I might consider a changen to at least 16 guage. Your length is not too long and you dont have much resistance drop it is just an over time issue that you might be better off in the long run...
Added to this is the 16 guage is a bit stronger than the 22. Just in case you crimp or stress the wire..

Chuck

[Papa]

OK is that just regular 16 gauge wire.  And I also read something about threaded and twisted wire.

[sonar2000]

PaPa. If you can get stranded that might be better for wear and tear.
Since this is a short length and nothing else is hooked to it you will be ok without a twisted wire.

All of this wiring issue is mostly for boats with radios, trolling motors and lots of wiring..
We have two yaks and one canoe and are fine even using our handheld radios..

chuck

[Papa]

OK Thank you