10 gauge wire getting way hot

[Andy A.]

Originally Posted by dmellich

Ok, here's a problem for you electrical types.

We recently experienced a near meltdown on the 12 gauge ground wire that comes out of the "distribution block" (new this past season) and feeds into the speed controller. The meltdown was actually the plastic that acts as a case for the metal connections in the block.

There were no problems prior to this incident. Any thoughts?

ps When I say meltdown, I mean the wires got hot enough to soften the plastic

Could you provide some more information?

What was the wire connected to? Were their problems with that component?

Generaly, hot electrical components suggests a high resistence connection. My first guess is that over time vibrations loosened the screw that holds the wires in the block, and the poor connection caused excess heat. Since it sounds like the heat was highest right around the screw terminal, it's a likely culprit.

In any case check that distro block carefully- the heat may have really screwed with it, and it may no longer be safe to use.

-Andy A.