I've got an '04 X2 and I'm having to redo my sub box because I didn't waterproof the last one good enough. I was in there last night getting the box out and noticed that my amp is wired with what looks to be about 8 gauge wire. The amp is a JL M4500 that was dealer/factory installed. I can't find a manual or anything on line for this thing and I'm wondering if I'm messing the amp up or maybe not utilizing it to it's full potential. Should I get some heavier gauge wire?

<a href="http://marine.jlaudio.com/pdfs/10966.pdf" target="_blank">http://marine.jlaudio.com/pdfs/10966.pdf</a> <BR> <BR>Cheers, <BR>DC

Well I don't know how far that 8 gauge wire is run, but unless it's around a foot yes you should have a thicker wire. If it was mine I'd replace it even at a short distance. The difference it will actually make may or may not be too apparent. I would replace it more for safety then anything. If it's a long wire run though I'd bet you do notice a difference. <BR> <BR> <BR>(Message edited by calvolson on February 23, 2010)

That amp looks to have a potential of up to a 50A draw. 8ga will handle that load up to 5ft.

Looks like the owner's manual agrees. It says 8awg minimum, but I still think I may change out to 6 or 4 one day if I get bored. Can't curt. Thanks for the input guys.