Can 12 Gauge Wire of Progressive Dynamics Panel PD4315K Handle 40 Amps

Published 01/26/2023

Question:

The Progressive Dynamics PD4135 power center recommends an 8 gauge wire to connect the 40 amp positive battery charging circuit to the battery but the PD4135 comes with a 12” smaller gauge pigtail installed. Do I need to replace that smaller pigtail with an 8 gauge wire soldered directly to the circuit board or can I simply attach the 8 gauge wire to the end of the smaller gauge wire? If I do, is there potential for the smaller gauge wire to overheat? It is also recommended to install an inline fuse on the 8 gauge positive battery charging wire near the battery. What type of fuse would you recommend using? Thank you in advance for your assistance.

asked by: David S

Helpful Expert Reply:

This is a great question which we've asked Progressive Dynamics in the past about for the # PD4135K and they have said that the 12 gauge wire that you mentioned can be used and if you were to extend it further you would then need to attach 8 gauge wire to it. They said that the 12 gauge wire has special insulation to handle the higher amperage draw. We've had customer come back and install this like this and it worked just fine.

expert reply by: Jameson C