Hi all,
Thanks for the help so far.
I've laid out my simple lithium and solar project and started wiring things up today.
By the way, this is my first dc project but i'm handy and have built stuff all my life.
So, i can't fit 10 agw wire in either of my charge controllers (Victron SmartSolar 100/20 and 75/10).
Did I buy the wrong stranded pure copper wire? Is there a type I should/shouldn't have bought?
I crimped the only ferrule on i could fit, still too big. I mean it's not even close
Do people thin out the stripped end so it can fit? That doesn't sound correct...
Anyway, thoughts? Advice?
Thanks all,
KS
0 ·
Comments
I installed a second controller for my suitcase solar panel. I honestly don't remember having trouble fitting them in, but I'll double check the wire size for you later today.
You don't need the ferrule.
Check there are no loose strands after tightening gently and pull testing for firm hold.
2021 T@B 320S Boondock/ 2012 Tacoma 4 cylinder truck / 2023 Tacoma 6 cyl. truck
Ken / 2023 Tab 400 “La Bolita” (29,000+ miles) / 2024 Toyota Sequoia
2025 - 1 Trip - 25 nights - 2 National Parks
**EDITED: note that I am referring to wire that I added for additional controllers; I used premium marine grade wire with 100 strands; thus 1 or 2 strands less are not a significant loss; personally, in my case I draw the line at 3 strands or more, which I keep retrying till it was 2 or less. If you are using wire with fewer strands it may not be acceptable to trim even 1 strand
1. It was easiest to have the controller free from the mounting surface when installing wires. Orient it face down. This will let gravity pull the lug down and provide the best opening to install a well-formed wire. Plus, you'll be in a less awkward position trying to complete the task.
2. After the install is completed and everything has some time to 'rest' go back and retighten the lugs (This is something I repeat on occasion in case road related vibration loosens things up- it happened to me).
2025 Silverado (EV) or 2019 Colorado (ICE)
2018 T@B 320 Sold
Racing the Wind and Chasing the Sun
Virginia Beach, VA
Ken / 2023 Tab 400 “La Bolita” (29,000+ miles) / 2024 Toyota Sequoia
2025 - 1 Trip - 25 nights - 2 National Parks