Which jumper cables

[CoyPatton]

Over the years I have

The reason for larger wire is to reduce voltage drop with distance. The length of the cables needs to be considered as well. The voltage drop in the cable is the product of the resistance of the cable multiplied by the current flowing at that time. Any resistance due to corrosion at the battery terminals or the wires attaching the clamp will also drop voltage. The condition of the batteries themselves can also limit current flow. This is really not a simple question but the generic answer would be bigger is generally better. Of course you can always build your own cables out of even bigger wire. Generally welding cable is more flexible than regular stranded cable.

Over the years, I have bought and built a number of sets of jumper cables. I agree with Roadworthy’s post. One caution if you decide to build your own, be sure the insulation on the wire you select is oil/gas/diesel/grease resistant. The first set I ever build (probably over 40 years ago) I failed to do this and the insulation started to fail in a rather short time period. Also as you may purchase 1 length of cable, 40’ of cable will produce basically 20’ of jumper cable, get some large heat shrink sleeves and place them along the cables to assist with keeping them together and reduce tangling.

 

[Paskidog]

I used this comany for all my solar projects and have bought jumper cables from them.
High quality and fast shipping. They will build them how you want them. The twin cable they use has TPE insulation which resist abrasion and oil.

Finer 100% copper stranding so the cable remains flexible.

2 Gauge Battery Jumper Cable Twin Lead Booster Cable - Pure Copper - By the Foot

www.batterycablesusa.com

Battery Jumper Cable Clamps

www.batterycablesusa.com

Not only does the finer wires allow more flexibility, it allows higher amperage due to electron flow only along the outer surface of each wire and the finer wires have more surface area than heavier wires for the same gauge.

 

[Dennis59]

I need a new set of jumper cables. I'd like for them to be satisfactory for my MF 1726E as well as automobiles. I will get "heavy duty" ones, as I've had experiences where lighter cables did not do the job when needed.

As I understand, 4-gauge is considered "heavy duty", but 1-gauge is even better for "heavy-duty" equipment. I'm not sure what is meant by "heavy-duty equipment". Do you think that 4-gauge will be satisfactory in all situations for my tractor and automobiles? Or should I go with 1-gauge to be safe?

I haven't used jumper cables in years. I find that it is easier to use a jump pack.
https://www.amazon.com/YUSMAN-Start...ords=car+jump+pack&qid=1735565881&sr=8-9&th=1

 

[CoyPatton]

You do not need any larger than 2 gage cables. Four gage would do for most cases but 2 is better if you want "heavy duty." Length is an issue most of the times I have needed jumper cables and you need to evaluate what length you need. I would not consider less than 8 ft length and 12ft will be handy. I would not go longer than 12ft because of the voltage drop at high current levels in longer cables. Stay away from aluminum cable which is only a cost advantage and much of that is questionable with the seller being the beneficiary, not you. Whoever above suggested welder cable is right on. If you make up your own cables he is exactly correct that welder cable is a lot more flexible and is made to expect rough use. The clamps should not be taken for granted. Get heavier ones and pay attention to how they connect with the wires.

If you do multiple sets of cables, 12’ for 1 see is fine and smaller gauge wire is fine (4) also. Personally, 20’ is what I consider a minimum length.
Evaluate your potential needs when using. Will you always be able to pull along side the vehicle that needs s jump? Or will there be the potential to need to pull up behind say your tractor with an implement attached to it?

 

[Ian618]

I need a new set of jumper cables. I'd like for them to be satisfactory for my MF 1726E as well as automobiles. I will get "heavy duty" ones, as I've had experiences where lighter cables did not do the job when needed.

As I understand, 4-gauge is considered "heavy duty", but 1-gauge is even better for "heavy-duty" equipment. I'm not sure what is meant by "heavy-duty equipment". Do you think that 4-gauge will be satisfactory in all situations for my tractor and automobiles? Or should I go with 1-gauge to be safe?

I'm not using jumpers cables anymore. 2 years ago, I switch to Gooloo jump starter, and i won't go back. You can chek it at gooloo.com

 

[ultrarunner]

Jumpers are typically a one time purchase lasting a lifetime.

I already know individuals on their second or third jump pack...

Guess it depends on how much convince is worth?

 

[Deanes]

A local welding shop gave me enough used welding cable to make a great set. I did a simple ohm test to make sure they were not broken. Rural King clamps and good for the past 10 years or so.

 

[Rocket Surgeon]

I need a new set of jumper cables. I'd like for them to be satisfactory for my MF 1726E as well as automobiles. I will get "heavy duty" ones, as I've had experiences where lighter cables did not do the job when needed.

As I understand, 4-gauge is considered "heavy duty", but 1-gauge is even better for "heavy-duty" equipment. I'm not sure what is meant by "heavy-duty equipment". Do you think that 4-gauge will be satisfactory in all situations for my tractor and automobiles? Or should I go with 1-gauge to be safe?

POADTOR Heavy Duty Jumper Cables for Car Battery, 0 Gauge 30 Feet 1000AMP, Automotive Booster Cables for Jump Starting Dead or Weak Batteries, Suitable for 8L Gas & 6L Diesel, Carrying Bag Included Amazon.com

 

[aircommuter]

In picture looks like comes with wire ends. Attaching to copper wire I'd be sure about 3/4" or so insulation stripped off, wire & connectors clean, flux, solder (60/40) "tin" both then solder together. Hammer clamp ends over wire. You want as low resistance, good tight connection possible.
I'd use some dielectric grease, then screwed onto clamp tightly.
The lower the resistance, the better the connection, the more current it can carry.

Why dielectric?

 

[LouNY]

POADTOR Heavy Duty Jumper Cables for Car Battery, 0 Gauge 30 Feet 1000AMP, Automotive Booster Cables for Jump Starting Dead or Weak Batteries, Suitable for 8L Gas & 6L Diesel, Carrying Bag Included Amazon.com

Sounded like a good deal until;

• SUPERIOR CONDUCTIVITY: These jumper cables are made of high-conductivity copper-clad aluminum (CCA) wire, providing optimal power transfer for quick vehicle starts. The double-grip design on the 30-foot jumper cables ensures a firm connection to both top and side post batteries
• SAFETY & DURABILITY: The cables are protected by an extra-thick PVC sheath, providing drop and insulation protection, ensuring your safety during the jump-start process. The heavy-duty jumper cables feature 100% copper clamp designs, further enhancing durability and ensuring long-lasting performance