Battery relocate to the trunk

[BuickGNMan]

I'd like to move my battery to the truck for better weight distribution and to eliminate that dreaded positive battery cable grounding out on the manifold problem. I like Summit Racings reloc kit but the wire that comes with it is 2ga as opposed to 1ga. Is 2ga sufficient for my '87 GN and does anyone have any suggestions on the best way of doing this? Thanks.

 

[Rickracer]

A lot of battery supply places handle cable...

...as well as ends and most anything else you might need. There are varying grades and gauges, but I always used 0 or 00 gauge "welding" cable. It has smaller strands, and therefore is more flexible than battery cable. It is also designed to carry mega amounts of current. You can probably have some really first class cables custom made for close to what the generic kit will cost you.

 

[BuickGNMan]

Thanks Rick. After 28 years ASE certified, I think I can trust your judgement.

 

[420]

Re: A lot of battery supply places handle cable...

Originally posted by Rickracer
...as well as ends and most anything else you might need. There are varying grades and gauges, but I always used 0 or 00 gauge "welding" cable. It has smaller strands, and therefore is more flexible than battery cable. It is also designed to carry mega amounts of current. You can probably have some really first class cables custom made for close to what the generic kit will cost you.

Would you happen to know the lengths needed to have a kit like that made up?

 

[salvageV6]

2 gauge would work fine for a race car assuming no big stereo and all.

Lose about half a volt over a 12 foot run at 140 ampere load.

I would guesstimate how much current I would be using in the car before choosing the wire kit.

 

[Rickracer]

Actually, I've not been ASE certified for 28 years

I've been turning wrenches for 28 years. The only cert I had for a long time was A/C, because the state required that every shop have at least one ASE certified A/C tech for doing A/C work. One day I went to work for a company that said they would pay me more if I was certified, and pay for my tests if I passed. I took them all, and went from none/one expired to master in one fell swoop. I didn't even crack a book. I'm gonna try to get my current employer to pay for L1, X1 and CS1 next. Then he'll understand when I hit him up for a my next raise. I may have to study a little bit for L1 though. Back to the topic, 2 gauge might really be enough, but I'm fond of overkill when it comes to reliability. And if you can get better for the same money or close, go for it.

 

[BuickGNMan]

Rick, Thanks again. I'm trying to move from the Albany snow to Sarasota, so maybe I'll see you in the sunshine someday! Have a great day and thanks again.

 

[V6DVette]

I posted a nice wiring diagram from MAD on a good way to do a trunk mount battery on T6P trunk mounted battery
I wouldn't want a 1/0 hot wire running the lenth of my ride
You can put a jumper between the terminal block and alt. to keep the voltage up when not at the track. And to keep your friends from turning your car off on you!
Hope that helps!