I am installing Classic Instruments White Hot series gauges in the dash of my 64 El Camino. In reading the instruction literature that comes with the gauges ( I know, real men don't need instructions!), I was puzzled by the repeated use of 16 AWG wire for these instrument connections. Every connection states that a minimum of 16 AWG wire be used. I would really like to use my existing wire harness wiring where possible. Can anyone tell me why a 16 gauge wire is needed for an oil pressure, temperature or volt gauge?:confused:

Its not "needed". The Inst. say "Minimum gauge". You can use 14 gauge (OM wire) but not 18 gauge...

Remember the higher the gauge number, The Smaller the size wire.

Its not "needed". The Inst. say "Minimum gauge". You can use 14 gauge (OM wire) but not 18 gauge...

Remember the higher the gauge number, The Smaller the size wire.

I think what he's saying is why not 18g. The guages he mentioned shouldn't need a 16g. I agree but I'm not going to argue with manufacturer.

I think what he's saying is why not 18g. The guages he mentioned shouldn't need a 16g. I agree but I'm not going to argue with manufacturer.

He mentioned using existing wiring harness. My 69 doesn't have anything smaller than 14G behind the dash. I do understand the "overkill" though. My AM gauges have 18G wire for all the lights and my elect. speedo has 18G for everything.

The underhood wiring for the oil pressure, temperature sending units and the wiring from the existing voltage regulator is all 18 ga. In such short runs, I just don't see the need for 16 ga wiring, especially since it will cause me to have to tear apart a completely good harness and add the required 16 ga wiring. The speedometer comes with its own wiring which just has to be run to the dash. I think I will call Classic Instruments and ask them that question, too. Thanks for the input.