Wiring

[psalter]

Dan,

There is not enough information to answer your question.

I uploaded the electrical section from the FAA AC43.13-1B (This reference is mentioned in the builders manual) which answers all of your questions about gauge size. First, on Page 11-15 the maximum breaker size that you can use for 18 gauge is 10 amps. However, that is not the entire answer, there is voltage drop, dependent on the length of the wire. Page 11-31 has a chart to help with that, go to the 14 volt column on the left, go down to maximum length, I selected 15 ft which should be close, and move to the right until you get to the 18 gauge column. You will see a heavy black diagonal line, and that shows 4 amps is the maximum load on a 18 gauge wire that is 15 feet long.

So, you can see that you have to know the wire length, and the maximum amperage of the device to pick the proper gauge.

The AC43.13-1B is one of the best references for hardware, electrical, sheet metal and fabric practices.

I don't know what the best lights are.

Snap bushings are the bare minimum required, but if the wires are tight in the bundle, it could be difficult to pull a new wire back through to fix a damaged wire. Another option is a corrigated black plastic conduit, there is a version of this at Auto parts places and Lowes/home depot that is split down it's length.

I am not going to bother with lights, as I am building a Day VFR aircraft.

[PlaneDan]

What are you using for wire conduit and lighting wiring? I am thinking #18 3 wire shielded and snap bushings. Placing an order today and want to see what other options I should consider.

Also, suggestions for wing tip lighting will be very useful as well.