Alternator ampage?

[chuggers72]

Should be a nice easy one for those in the know! had a look on the Wiki with no joy.

The main feed to my alternator is corroded - looking to replace all the wiring between the starter/solenoid etc - what ampage wire should I use? I'm thinking 50?

Cheers

[California Dreamin]

I'm a little unclear as to which wiring you are talking about. A petrol starter motor can draw up to 160amps on a cold winters morning and that kind of current over a 5 meter run (to the battery box behind the drivers seat) will suffer alot of voltage drop if the wire isn't heavy enough.
Generally with a wire of that length and current draw you would need to substantially over-rate..much more than the 160amps needed (because of the resistance over that kind of length).
OR
Alternator rating......45/65 or 90 amp obviously not constant but nevertheless, needs to be rated for maximum current flow.

Martin

[chuggers72]

I can put a pic up later but the connection in question is the one that connects to the alternator itself.

[California Dreamin]

This might be useful...

http://forum.club8090.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=39&t=132695" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Martin

[CovKid]

Along with: http://wiki.club8090.co.uk/index.php/VW ... ain_cables" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; which also gives suggested ratings. Something around the 200 amps mark would be good. Its listed under "VW Electrics (not camper interior specific)"