Battery Rigging

[TNBronzeback]

Before i get scolded for not using the Search Box within this forum, let me say that i tried that first, but either didnt use the correct key word, or just missed what i was looking at.
So here is my question:
I have a 12volt trolling motor, 2 deep cycle batteries. I want to hook the batteries up in tandom for an equal draw off both batteries (i know how to do that) but my question is, do i match the wire size that is in my boat for the jumpers, or do i need to up the gauge from battery to battery.
It was hard to see, but i think the wire from battery connection to trolling motor plug was 8 awg tinned copper....if that makes sense.....
So should i get a length of 8awg or something a little bigger? The connections to be jumping are about 10" apart max.

[tkwalker]

Originally Posted by TNBronzeback

Before i get scolded for not using the Search Box within this forum, let me say that i tried that first, but either didnt use the correct key word, or just missed what i was looking at.
So here is my question:
I have a 12volt trolling motor, 2 deep cycle batteries. I want to hook the batteries up in tandom for an equal draw off both batteries (i know how to do that) but my question is, do i match the wire size that is in my boat for the jumpers, or do i need to up the gauge from battery to battery.
It was hard to see, but i think the wire from battery connection to trolling motor plug was 8 awg tinned copper....if that makes sense.....
So should i get a length of 8awg or something a little bigger? The connections to be jumping are about 10" apart max.

TNB, I'm not really sure what your asking ... Using all of the same gauge would be good ... But make sure the serial connection between the two batteries are the same as your trolling motor lead or larger ... Do not feed from battery to battery with a smaller gauge than your leads ... And no I don't think this question has ever been asked on the board ... Good question .. Hope this helps .... <'TK><

[TNBronzeback]

Thanks TK, thats what i was wondering was what gauge i should use to jump between the batteries. i figured it would be the same as the wiring to the Trolling Motor, but figured i would ask in case there was some funky electrical drop from battery to battery to motor. I guess i just took the super long way to ask a very simple question.
That does help me alot!
Thanks for the clarification.

[Heiny57]

Yes.

[TerryD]

I use lawnmower battery cables. They are fairly cheap and you can get them at any auto parts stores. They have the ring terminals on each end that fit perfect on your battery's threaded posts.

[FloatNFish]

Same or larger and you will be good.

[Heiny57]

Originally Posted by TerryD

I use lawnmower battery cables. They are fairly cheap and you can get them at any auto parts stores. They have the ring terminals on each end that fit perfect on your battery's threaded posts.

Excellent idea. I may be needing some soon. Thanks.

[StriperFan]

The amp draw (which determines wire size) will be the same with one or two batteries for a 12v configuration. You will get extra time on the water with the second battery. Parallel connection for the batteries to keep the voltage 12v ie..positive to positive and negative to negative. I like to use larger cable for max delivery. I like at least #4 for trolling motors.