[Al Skierkiewicz]

Sparks and everyone,
Not to let anyone get misled at this late date by some of the early season discussion, we need to make some things clear based on the actual competition practice and rules. In the sections quoted by Aidan above, there is a small reference to conforming to the "robot power distribution" drawing. In that drawing you will find a table that states that certain motors and speed controllers wired to those motors be wired with #10. Additionally, the inspectors sheet required inspectors to check that wiring of the correct guage was used in each leg or branch of the circuit. As an inspector at GLR, MWR and Nationals I can assure you that we were trained to watch for these wiring minimums.
As to the original question relating to the wire size supplied with devices, we must add that resistance in wire (and the heating that takes place in that resistance) is also a function of length. The compressor and drills both have fairly short leads where the resistance is at a minimum. Additional information on the drill's #16 is that the manufacturer chose the high temp wire with the knowledge that the wire may burn open at stall currents. Design engineers at the manufacturer consider the #16 a fuse and as such, FIRST chose to rule that it be left attached. Other than the challenge it presents in wiring, teams should not have too much trouble in leaving it attached. I will add that many teams have found the solder job less than adequate and remove the brush assy by moving aside the little keeper, correctly solder the wire in place, and replace the brush assy after cooling.