[Mobile-Portable] Power

[Art Clemons]

Des, N4IN:
> I am doing another mobile installation in my new VW Jetta for my IC-706MKIIG
> this time I have a very tight fit to pass the 12VDC through to get into the
> car. I am considering using 12AWG instead of the 10AWG I previously used in
> my old vehicle, Jeep Cherokee, the run is about 12-15ft. I figured this is
> OK but wanted to ask for input. Is the 12AWG OK for a rig that will draw
> 21-22 Amps intermittently via 12AWG over a 15ft run?

I would strongly advise not using either 10AWG or 12AWG, but instead 
using the largest possible size (a minimum of 4AWG) to provide power to 
your mobile rig.  Even in a 15 FT run, IR losses add up.  You might want 
to ask a VW mechanic where an unused grommet is in the Jetta, and then 
seal that up with silicon sealant instead.  The other point to consider 
is that a 12AWG could get quite hot with a 15 to 20 amp load even at 12 
volts and constitute an eventual hazard if the insulatin melts or 
otherwise deteriorates from heat.  Of course, if it's the best you can 
do, you can try it, but remember that fusing is always necessary near 
the battery.