Troubleshooting Radiator Fan With 12V Battery Where Wires Get Very Hot

Question:

I picked up a used fan, not sure who made by. to test it, hooked to a 12 volt with alagator clips, its a radiator cooling fan but the wires became very hot. Am I missing something?

asked by: John R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The wires may not be the correct gauge. They should not have been hot with 12V power. The motor may be drawing too much power as well. If the motor isn't overheating, than replacing the wires should solve the problem. You can use # 16-1-1 or # 12-1-1 depending on the amperage needs of your motor and the length of wire needed. Longer distances requires thicker gauge wire for proper amperage.

expert reply by: Jason S