I just got my 200 amp alt. I am getting ready to install. The place I got it from said I should upgrade the wiring for the car from 8 gauge to 4 but i could just run a 2nd 8 gauge directly from the alt to the batt. Any suggestions:confused:

I have a 200 amp alternator in my own car. With that much power,
you should run a 4 gauge wire from the alternator to your battery + terminal.

If you feel up to it, you can do what is called "The Big 3" upgrade. It involves adding the following wires in addition to car's stock wiring:

(use 4-gauge wire or a lower # gauge)
Alternator to battery positive "+" terminal
Engine block to chassis
Battery negative "-" terminal to chassis

It will cut down on electrical resistance, and make things easier on your alternator. It will also help with lights dimming if you have that problem with a stereo.

I would go with at least 1/0 guage if you are doing the big three... IT will allow for any future mods you want to do for your car without re-wiring...

You need at LEAST 2 gauge for that 200 amp alternator.

I would go with at least 1/0 guage if you are doing the big three... IT will allow for any future mods you want to do for your car without re-wiring...


I agree totally as I have done just that with my new high output alternator.

beware though, power wire has gone up in price considerably in the last month or so. Also I too would say 2g at a minimum, go with 1/0 and the big 3 for optimum performance.