I’m planning to rewire my amp since I’m upgrading to a high output alternator. I’m looking at the Skar Audio CCA 1/0 kit for $40, but the OFC kit is around $110. Is it worth spending the extra money? I’m running 1200 RMS right now but plan to upgrade in the future once I finish the Big 3 upgrade and install the alternator. Should I buy from Skar, or is there a better deal for 1/0 OFC wire?
OFC is better than CCA, but yeah, it costs more. I usually go with Knu Konceptz. They’re reliable and not as gimmicky as some other brands.
Shawn said:
OFC is better than CCA, but yeah, it costs more. I usually go with Knu Konceptz. They’re reliable and not as gimmicky as some other brands.
Do you think it’s worth it if I’m only running 1200 RMS? I’m not sure if spending extra makes sense for me right now.
@Mckinley
If you’re already paying for a high-output alternator, it doesn’t make sense to skimp on the wiring.
@Mckinley
I’d say go for the OFC without a doubt. After that, upgrade your battery. You can leave the alternator upgrade for last.
Shawn said:
@Mckinley
I’d say go for the OFC without a doubt. After that, upgrade your battery. You can leave the alternator upgrade for last.
I already have an AGM battery, but it’s from Costco. I haven’t done the Big 3 upgrade yet. I was planning to do that and the alternator at the same time, but my headlights still dim.
@Mckinley
Honestly, I think you’re doing everything in the wrong order.
Nate said:
@Mckinley
Honestly, I think you’re doing everything in the wrong order.
It should go like this: Big 3 upgrade, AGM battery, and then the high-output alternator.
Buy from Knu Konceptz. Skar doesn’t size their wires properly, and you should avoid CCA unless you want to redo the wiring later. Do it right the first time and save yourself the hassle.
Don’t go for the Skar wire. I’d recommend the Slapz Audio wiring bundle for the price. I got their 1/0 kit, but it wouldn’t fit a standard 1/0 adapter. It’s more like 1-2 gauge. It works, but it’s about 25% smaller than the industry standard.
Everyone’s saying it, and they’re right. OFC is the way to go. Temco is a good brand. Spend the money now, so you don’t regret it later.
Always use OFC wire. No exceptions.
If you’re doing the upgrade, check eBay for Temco welding cable. It’s OFC and costs about $3.63 per foot, plus $3.50 shipping. You can order exactly how much you need, so there’s no waste. For example, 10 feet would cost around $43 shipped. Use black wire for the ground, or color the red wire with a sharpie to save some money. Here’s a link: WELDING CABLE 1/0 RED Per-Foot CAR BATTERY LEADS USA NEW Gauge Copper Solar | eBay
Don’t use CCA. If you’re going to rewire, do it properly.
Peyton said:
Don’t use CCA. If you’re going to rewire, do it properly.
Exactly this. Some amp manufacturers won’t honor warranties if you use CCA because it gets too hot. OFC is worth the money. If you’re upgrading the alternator, go with 0 gauge. An AGM battery like X2 or Odyssey, OFC wiring, and the Big 3 upgrade will make a huge difference. Leave the alternator upgrade for last.
Just a heads-up for people recommending welding cable: 1/0 welding cable isn’t the same as 1/0 audio cable.
Jesse said:
Just a heads-up for people recommending welding cable: 1/0 welding cable isn’t the same as 1/0 audio cable.
Actually, 1/0 welding cable is usually thicker than audio cable. The main difference is flexibility. Make sure whatever you buy is labeled AWG (American Wire Gauge) and not just ‘gauge,’ since there’s no standard for that, and it can be sized however the manufacturer wants.
2/0 welding wire is the best value for the money. It also has a thicker jacket than most ‘car audio’ wire.
The price difference is totally worth it, especially if you’re already spending on a high-output alternator. What’s another $60-70 for better wire?
Either get 0 gauge or stick with OFC. Don’t bother with anything else.