another compressor wire size question with a twist

[383 240z]

I just bought a length of 2-8 wire so I could relocate my compressor. I has been down for a long while since the motor let all the smoke out, and it was cold so replacing it was not high on my list. The new motor is mounted the 8 gauge is run to the breaker. Here is my question. Why does the 8 run from the breaker to the psi switch, then same 8 wire runs to the control box where it ties into the small hookup wires in the control box? Should it not be heavy copper all the way to the motor? I'll take a pic of what I'm talking about later. Keith

 

[wyliesdiesels]

I just bought a length of 2-8 wire so I could relocate my compressor. I has been down for a long while since the motor let all the smoke out, and it was cold so replacing it was not high on my list. The new motor is mounted the 8 gauge is run to the breaker. Here is my question. Why does the 8 run from the breaker to the psi switch, then same 8 wire runs to the control box where it ties into the small hookup wires in the control box? Should it not be heavy copper all the way to the motor? I'll take a pic of what I'm talking about later. Keith

Need more info. What size compressor? If its big enough to need #8 wire, Im betting the pressure switch is only rated to open and close the coil in the motor starter and would therefore only need small gauge wire to the pressure switch. Please do post pics and more detail....

 

[G_P]

You can get away with using a smaller wire if the distance is very short.

 

[LS6 Tommy]

If you mean the pigtails on the motor windings, they're almost never the same size as the rest of the circuit on small motors.

Tommy

 

[AP514]

If you mean the pigtails on the motor windings, they're almost never the same size as the rest of the circuit on small motors.

Tommy

What are they smaller by 1 gauge ? or larger ?