Subwoofer box terminals and speaker wire gauge

[Golitan11]

I just ordered my Sundown SA-12 subwoofer with an Hifonics BRX1100.1D amplifer and KnuKonceptz amplifier installation kit (Kolossus 4 gauge). Here are my questions:

1. Since most amplifier installation kits do come with 12 gauge speaker wire, is it plenty for my setup (800-900W RMS @ 1 ohm, maximum 5 feet)? Will I need 10 gauge?

2. I also need a connection (terminal) for my box but I have read that terminal cups are shit. The problem is I will be moving the subwoofer in and out of the vehicle very often (I need my trunk). So screws or passing the wires straight through would be problematic. What do you guys recommend?

Thanks.

[Azagtoth502]

12g is fine & just use bolts with wing nuts for the sub.

[Golitan11]

1. What kind of screws should I use?

2. Are you sure 12 gauge is enough/will not melt?

Thanks.

[CleanSierra]

Haha on the 12 gauge melting. If you're that worried, get a nicer quality 12 gauge from someone like Knu Konceptz. The power you're pushing with that amp will not warrant any higher than 12 gauge. I agree with what others have said about using wing nuts with bolts. It's quick and easy to take a drill, put a couple holes in the box, and then a couple bolts with lock washers and wing nuts.

[Jessica]

I'm running two sk 1500's strapped and using 12ga, you will be fine.

[Golitan11]

What is a great material for bolts that can be found easily (and conductive as well for sure)? I live in Canada. Thanks.

[Golitan11]

Ok I just bought two gold plated terminals with a wing nut on top. Here are my questions:

1. Should I use brass instead of gold plating or this the best? Why?

2. Should I change the wing nut for a normal nut or a wing nut should hold enough? Why?

3. How do I attach the old wires to the new battery terminals (yes I wanna keep them)?

Thanks.

[SnowDrifter]

IMO copper, followed by aluminum is the best if you are running bolts through your box. But in all honesty I don't think you will notice any performance difference between materials.

A wing nut will suffice. This isn't a load bearing connection. Just make sure you put a nut over the bolt to lock it in place. Then put your terminal/wingnut on next

You can either get battery posts or cut the ends off the wire and install ring terminals

[smashedz28]

Terminal cups aren't that bad if done right. I've got one on my box with 2 sa12s with no problems.

[Golitan11]

Ok I got brass screws, nuts and whashers for my enclosure terminals

1. I have two types of screws but I don't know which one I should use. I have 2" and 1.5" ones (with the same diameter) but the 2" seems to be a lot darker than the 1.5" (both are brass). Does it means it has more copper in it? Do you have more resistance because it is longer? Which ones should I use?

2. In which order should I place the washers, the nuts and the ring terminals?

Thanks.