I just upgraded to a 160amp alternator, I noticed that the stock wire from the alternator is 8awg (at best) I want to upgrade it to a 4 awg wire. I do that It needs to go to some other stuff that just the battery, but I can't see what it goes to. Can I just *add* a 4awg wire from the output post of the alternator to the positive post of the battery and leave the stock wire that's already on the alternator to go to whatever it goes to?

or do I really need to competely replace the wire that's there? if so, what does it go to? are there any DIY threads for this? I did a quick search, but couldn't come up with the correct search terms.

 

The alternator output generally always goes directly to the battery. From the battery, other wires would run to fuse/relay boxes to power the car. I can't honestly say I know how it's setup on the RX8. Never really had to worry about it.

But regardless, I certainly see no reason why you couldn't just add an additional 4g wire directly to the battery. I'd upgrade the grounds too while you're at it.

 

Thanks Firebirdude.. BTW - did you ever sell your car?

 

Nope. I tired for a little while, but only got a couple real low ball offers. Got tired of relisting it all the time, but I should probably get back at it.