Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 11
03-23-16, 10:13 AM
#1
Golf Cart Wiring Gauge Question
I am in the process of restoring an older Melex 112. Since I’m fabricating all the cables, I need to know the gauge size. I’m assuming that 8 gauge wire would be sufficient to handle 36V/2HP motor, but I would like to have this confirmed before I buy the wire.
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Group Moderator
Join Date: Mar 2003
Posts: 16,676
NC
03-23-16, 04:52 PM
#4
What amperage will your cart draw? That can be used as a guide for sizing your wire.
Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Posts: 11
03-24-16, 05:35 AM
#5
I finally managed to halfway read the motor Amp draw:57A. If this reading is correct, #8 is definitely out of the question. Since I already have some on hand, I'm going to use #4 welding wire instead. The 2.1 HP motor is conservatively rated. At that amperage and voltage, it should be over 3 HP.
Group Moderator
Join Date: Mar 2003
Posts: 16,676
NC
03-24-16, 06:11 AM
#6
Don't forget that the loops of wire used for the speed control are basically heaters. Energy gets wasted as heat to get the various speeds.
