Mercruiser Battery Cable Sizing Requirements
BATTERY
IMPORTANT: Boating industry standards (BIA, ABYC, etc.), federal standards and Coast Guard regulations must be adhered to when installing battery. Be sure battery cable installation meets the pull test requirements and that positive battery terminal is properly insulated in accordance with regulations.
IMPORTANT: It is recommended (required in some states) that battery be installed in an enclosed case. Refer to regulations for your area.
IMPORTANT: Engine electrical system is negative (–) ground.
Select a battery that meets all of the following specifications:
- 12 Volt Marine Type
- Tapered post connectors or side terminal connectors.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT use a battery with wing nut connectors.
- Battery capacity rating of at least:Gasoline Engines
|
Engine(Cyl./Type) |
cid (l) |
Minimum Required Cranking Battery Size |
|
V6 EFI |
262 (4.3L) |
550 cca/700 mca/120 Ah |
|
V6 Carb |
262 (4.3L) |
375 cca/475 mca/90 Ah |
|
V8 Carb |
305 (5.0L) |
375 cca/475 mca/90 Ah |
|
V8 Carb |
350 (5.7L) |
375 cca/475 mca/90 Ah |
|
V8 MPI |
350 (5.7L) |
550 cca/700 mca/120 Ah |
|
V8 MPI |
454/502 (7.4L/8.2L) |
650 cca/825 mca/150 Ah |
BATTERY CABLES
Select proper size positive (+) and negative (–) battery cables, using chart. Battery shouldbe located as close to engine as possible.
IMPORTANT: Terminals must be soldered to cable ends to ensure good electrical contact. Use electrical grade (resin flux) solder only. Do not use acid flux solder acid may cause corrosion and a subsequent failure.
|
Cable Length |
Cable Gauge |
|
Up to 3-1/2 ft. (1.1m) |
4 (25mm2) |
|
3-1/2 – 6 ft. (1.1-1.8m) |
2 (35mm2) |
|
6 – 7-1/2 ft. (1.8-2.3m) |
1 (50mm2) |
|
7-1/2 – 9-1/2 ft. (2.3-2.9m) |
0 (50mm2) |
|
9-1/2 – 12 ft. (2.9-3.7m) |
00 (70mm2) |
|
12 – 15 ft. (3.7-4.6m)000 (95mm2) |
12 – 15 ft. (3.7-4.6m)000 (95mm2) |
|
15 – 19 ft. (4.6-5.8m) |
0000 (120mm2) |