New alternator wiring question

[Mobius]

I recently installed a CS144, 140 amp alternator, to power my dual electric cooling fans and whatever else I add down the road. I’ve read through some of the info here, and know I need to upgrade some of my wiring. People talk about the charge wire. Are you just adding a bigger wire from the alt to the firewall junction block? Are you running a wire directly from the alt to the battery positive post? What else beyond this and the grounds needs an upgrade?

 

[75gmck25]

I found it easier to run the new wire directly over from the alternator BAT terminal to a junction block inside the passenger side fender, and then to the battery positive. I pulled a charge wire (8 gauge?) off a newer GMT400 pickup and it already had the fusible link molded into the wire.

I pulled the junction block inside the fender off the firewall of another squarebody, and also used it to connect a fused relay for my upgraded headlight wiring.

Bruce

 

[Matt69olds]

If the charge wire is bigger than whatever goes from the junction block to the battery, that needs to be upgraded as well. Otherwise, the bigger wire will stay cool, the smaller wire will get hot and eventually let all the smoke out of the wires. Anyone who know anything about automotive electrical systems knows it’s the smoke that makes things work.

 

[Mobius]

I definitely don’t want to let all the magic smoke out. Thanks for the advice, gentlemen.

 

[jjester6000]

I definitely don’t want to let all the magic smoke out. Thanks for the advice, gentlemen.

If you do let all of the magic smoke out, this is what you should get:

http://www.stereodustparticles.com/sdp-ads/JerseyBarrier/index.html

 

[C10MixMaster]

I definitely don’t want to let all the magic smoke out. Thanks for the advice, gentlemen.

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[MikeB]

When I re-wired my 82, I used 8 gauge from ALT to a new junction block on the firewall above the starter. From there I ran 8 gauge to BAT terminal on starter, and another 8 gauge wire to the fuse panel.

On another note, I suggest using cross-linked polyethylene insulated wired that is SXL or GXL rated, not the wire you find at hardware and auto parts stores. Here's a really good value: https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/10841/10002/-1

Good article: https://www.purkeys.net/are-you-buying-the-right-wire/