Using 30 Amp Circuit Breaker with a Ham Radio Powered by Car Battery

Published 04/03/2014

Products Featured in This Question

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(109)

$1.91

30 amp. In-Line Circuit Breaker - Perpendicular Mount Bracket

(75)

$6.90

Ring Terminal - 12-10 Gauge Wire - 5/16" Ring ID

(72)

$1.09

Pollak Circuit Breaker - Cycling/Automatic Reset - 30 Amp - Straight Mount Bracket

(74)

$7.86

Question:

I need to run the 30 amp fuse from the power cables I believe its 10 gauge to protect in radio how do I do itor should I use 12 gauge

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

You can use 10-gauge wire # 10-1-1 and a 30 amp fuse, but a 30 amp in-line circuit breaker like # 38630 or # PK54530 will automatically reset if you experience a short or overload. With a fuse you would have to replace it.

The 10-gauge wire is sold in 1 foot increments.

There are 2 terminals on the circuit breaker. The copper-colored one labeled BAT connects to the battery and the one labeled AUX will go to your radio.

You will need ring terminals like # 44-5356A.

I have linked a video of the installation of an In-Line Circuit Breaker.