I have been following the thread about the mobile installation of high power
radios/amps. Just for what it's worth, two good sources for BIG power cables,
in Black and in Red, are:
Your local car stereo installation shop. I got my #8 there, it is super
flexible, and works just swell. For making reusable connections with the wire,
I use Swenco POSI-LOCK connectors for stranded wire. No problems with that at
all. As to fusing -- I use what is called the Big Fuse. I got the connector
at Kragen, but they want too much for the fuses there, so got them at the local
commercial radio supply, for a buck apiece. They also provide a nice place to
break the connection for "valet parking", so nobody can turn your rig on --
sorta like the old GE cartridge or screw-in fuses used back in the hollow-state
days. When you snap the cover back on, it is not obvious that it is a fuse
holder, nor that the fuse is missing.
Another source, often overlooked, is to purchase quality automobile JUMPER
CABLES on sale. Cut the battery clamps off, and voila! Almost ALWAYS cheaper
than going and buying the wire itself, if you buy right. Sources include
KMart, Wally World, Sears, Kragen, NAPA, etc. Just find the one having them in
their weekly sale!
Also provides battery clamps for other projects! (Read --- more "stuff" in the
junque box!)
Another hint --- Places that offer truck parts, or marine supplies, have
excellent break-out type devices, so you can run the major wire from the
battery into the vehicle, and then feed your various radios/amps.
I use a ground wire direct to the battery, not the chassis.
73, Y'all --- Mark, AA6DX
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