Im fixing the wiring in the engine bay of my 82 244. I want to know if i can patch/extend/replace wire for sensors with wire that has thicker individual strands? Does the strand thickness of the wire matter when wiring this car? Any other info would be greatly apprieciated.

TYVM

Original is 18 GA. Don't know the stranding GA. You could use teflon insulated wire, same as O2 sensor. Then you are guaranteed longevity. It’s available at appliance parts stores. I rewired the entire engine harness with it.

The strand thickness does not matter, as long as you are using the same guage wire. Thinner strands are to offer more flexibility. The current that the conductor is handling determines the gauge, so just stick with the same guage wire as the existing and all will be well.

Gary

I believe you mean the wire is not the usual fine-stranded automotive wire. There could be a couple of problems with the wiring you propose to use:

-its insulation may not be rated adequately for the temperatures and chemicals (oil, grease, engine cleaners, etc) it will see under the hood..check on this or you may have a short-lived repair.

-thicker strands of copper mean less flexibility and a greater tendency to "work harden" under movement and vibration, which can lead to mechanical failure...a break, possibly an invisible break inside the insulation.

Kane is right in that you should use the proper gauge size of the wiring to at least match the originals.
--
Bob (81-244GL B21F, 83-244DL B23F, 94-944 B230FD; plus grocery-getter Dodge minivan, MGB, and numerous old motorcycles)

Some resistance will be eliminated, but in general, going thicker is not a problem, but you should never go thinner.

-- Kane
--
Blossom II - '91 745Ti/M46 ... Bubbles - '74 144GL/BW35 ... Buttercup - '86 245GL/AW70 ... The Wayback Machine - '64 P220/M40