Routing of TV wiring to charge RV batteries?

[toolman.dustin]

Originally Posted by 660catman

Attachment 5502

That looks more realistic, thx.

[toolman.dustin]

Originally Posted by DavisK

That's a confusing statement because voltage has nothing to do with determining wire size. Wire size is determined by amperage, length of wire and permissible voltage drop. Voltage is a consideration in determining the coating on the wire. 14 gauge wire is rated for 15 amps. 12 gauge wire is rated for 20 amps.

That's true if your talking about 120 volts.
15 amps at 120 volts or 1800 watts.

But the most we'll see is 14.4 volts from our alternator.

Dustin

[Lloyd]

* Think about it, lots of people run 1500 watt space heaters on 14 gauge wire (that's 120v and 12.5 amps).**


I ran a dedicated line for the electric heater in our camper. The 14 ga. wire they put in for the wall receptacles could not handle the draw from my electric heater when I would try and run it on high. So I guess I have to disagree with that part of your write up.

[Lloyd]

Originally Posted by toolman.dustin

That's true if your talking about 120 volts.
15 amps at 120 volts or 1800 watts.

But the most we'll see is 14.4 volts from our alternator.

Dustin

Where do you think you will see that 14.4 volts from the alternator? Certainly not way back at the camper battery.

[toolman.dustin]

Originally Posted by Lloyd

Where do you think you will see that 14.4 volts from the alternator? Certainly not way back at the camper battery.

The most you could see is 14.4, whether from the alternator or the converter. Your alternator is regulated and can produce as much as 14.4 volts. The 7 pin on most trucks, including my Tundra, is connected directly to the truck battery via a fuse and relay. So, if your truck battery is low or the trailer battery is low the alternator could put out as much as 14.4. The alternator can't tell if the truck battery is low or if the trailer battery is low all it sees is a demand for power. There will be some voltage drop from the truck battery to the 7 pin, but not much.