i have 2 questions regarding wire amp ratings for teo item my coil pack and my alternator, both require a 12v switched supply but what wire current rating do they need?

alternator is a denso style and its a ford gen 2 coil pack.

i was going to use 13A wire, would this be ok?

13 Amp is probably ok for the coil pack, but definitely not for the alternator. Even the small alternators can source about 30 Amps.

are you sure about the alternator "sourcing" 30A.
I know those little ones produce that sort of current, so need at least 40A cable to the battery, but to switch the alternator on uses much smaller current. I used some very thin wire, probably 8A, without even thinking it may need a big supply. I think they only need a few amps, so 13A shoudl be way over the top....
happy to be corrected of course

If it's just for the ignition warning lamp or remote sense wire then 13 amp will will be more than adequate.

quote:

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Originally posted by cliftyhanger
but to switch the alternator on uses much smaller current. I used some very thin wire, probably 8A, without even thinking it may need a big supply. I think they only need a few amps, so 13A shoudl be way over the top....
happy to be corrected of course

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i have some 11 Amp wire, i'll use that!

cheers chaps, locostbuilders to the rescue again