So I finally found my fusible links to start fixing the mess I have. I was able to get 14, 16, and 18, but I need to use 12 for my alternator line. (upgraded charging system) Does anyone know how long I need to make the fusible link wire for a 12 gauge fusible link protecting a 8 gauge wire???

Is a formula but I don't have that data.... Sorry.

That link is not made to protect the alt. Protect car from keeping battery from shorting when alt has a major problem.
Most links are same idea.... shorted out Battery can deliver 400 amp or more and will blow the link.

If you can't find a suitable formula... Make new one about same as one for battery cable.
Remember to include length inside terminals.

And you did notice that you can't solder fuse link... Solder will mess with length and size of link wire.

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Ok... will do. No soldering! I got solderless waterproof connectors for everything! Thanks again

Somebody has had to replace fusible links with a spool before... Please help... I ahve searched and found nada

Nothing???

Found the below on sale at Amazon when i was searching for lengths of a 12 gauge fusible link

"Product Description
The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire (i.e. 10 ga. is thicker than 16 ga.)
A fusible link is a special section of low tension cable installed by an OEM and designed to open a circuit when subjected to extreme current overload. Its purpose is to minimize wiring system damage when such an overload accidentally occurs in those circuits protected by the fusible link. A short circuit causes the fusible link to act as an element in a "slow-blow" fuse. A fusible link is not intended to be used in place of a fuse but only where a fuse cannot be economically employed. Our fusible line wire meets the requirements of SEJ-156 and the insulation has the characteristics as listed for EAE, SE J-1128Type SXL. The vehicle manufacturer should be consulted about questions on fusible link length and size. General practice has been for a fusible link to be 4 gauges smaller than the circuit wire. Example: if the circuit wire is 12 gauge, use a 16 gauge fusible link. Final determination should be based on O.E.M.application.
Note: Extreme care should be taken to always replace a fusible link with the same gauge and length as installed by the manufacturer.
Universal Fusible Links
Gauge: 12
Length: 9 Inches
Replaces GM: 6293923
(5) 9" Lengths Per Package "

Link:
http://www.amazon.com/Gauge...293923/dp/B0040CX7O0

And this on another site:
"


The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire (i.e. 10 ga. is thicker than 16 ga.)
A fusible link is a special section of low tension cable installed by an OEM and designed to open a circuit when subjected to extreme current overload. Its purpose is to minimize wiring system damage when such an overload accidentally occurs in those circuits protected by the fusible link. A short circuit causes the fusible link to act as an element in a “slow-blow” fuse. A fusible link is not intended to be used in place of a fuse but only where a fuse cannot be economically employed. Our fusible line wire meets the requirements of SEJ-156 and the insulation has the characteristics as listed for EAE, SE J-1128Type SXL. The vehicle manufacturer should be consulted about questions on fusible link length and size. General practice has been for a fusible link to be 4 gauges smaller than the circuit wire. Example: if the circuit wire is 12 gauge, use a 16 gauge fusible link. Final determination should be based on O.E.M.application.
Note: Extreme care should be taken to always replace a fusible link with the same gauge and length as installed by the manufacturer.
Universal Fusible Links
Gauge: 14
Length: 9 Inches
Replaces GM: 6292995, 8903488 Ford D3AZ-14526D & other 14 Ga. links
(5) 9" Lengths Per Package"

http://www.clipsandfastener..._Length_p/a12629.htm

Same for 18 and 16... So all this tells me is that is the general length they are sold in. There has got to be a guide!

4 to 6"
It is not resistance wire, where different lengths make for different impedence. You just need a reasonable length to make it easy to work with, and with enough length so it can do its job. 4 inches - 4 feet - doesnt change anything.

[This message has been edited by Pyrthian (edited 08-26-2011).]

Awesome... thank you. I kept reading over and over online that you make sure its the same length as the manufacturer installed. Well the previous owner took them all out so I had no idea... lol!
I was so worried my car would just be sitting till I could figure it out, or I would have to order some from the dealer to measure against... ugh!
Thanks again!

FYI: I went with a 6inch length on the 12gauge fusible link wire