[MetasysTech]

Has anyone extended the cable for a level 2 charger? I am looking to mount "charger" in garage and hard wire to an outside junction box where the original cable will be connected. Of course I will upsize the gauge of the current carrying wires. I will probably shorten the original cable some as the junction box will be close to car.

 

[Sean-a-Tron]

If you're extending the EV side of the "charger" (EVSE), I believe you would need a 5 wire cable (2 Hot, 1 Ground, 2 Signal). However, it would be easier, though more expensive, to buy a J1772 extension cable.

IE: http://shop.quickchargepower.com/JLONG-40-Amp-J1772-extension-cable-JL40A.htm

 

[freshcut]

The J1772 cord should only have 4 wires, larger gauge wires for 2 hot and 1 ground, then a smaller gauge wire for pilot wire. The proximity signal returns through the ground wire. As for an extension, I don't see any reason you couldn't, although they also make J1772 extension cords if thats another option you might consider.

 

[kns]

Article 625 of the National Electrical Code limits the maximum length of cable between EVSE and vehicle. I believe the limit is 35' but you could look it up to be sure. In case of a mishap that could be attributed to your installation you should adhere to the code and, depending on municipal regulations, have it installed or inspected by a licensed electrician.

KNS

 

[edk-austin]

If you're looking to extend the Hot, "feed" side of the EVSE, yes certainly, just provide sufficient gauge cable for the current and length. Many L2s are only fed with 3 wires, L1, L2, GND. The EVSE to J1772 side can also can be extended, I added a section of common SOOW 12/4 cable on the J1772 side, available at home stores. It carries the same L1, L2, Gnd, and Pilot as the original EVSE cable.

 

[llninja]

Technically, the charger is in the car, under the passenger side bumper area. I would not extend the J1772 side, but extend the electrical feed. If I could have a do-over, I would shop for a 25 foot EVSE cord instead of the 18 foot one I have today. My EVSE has a pigtail to a 30A plug where I should have gone with a 40A one. Finally, I should have paid extra for 2 electrical runs instead of one so I could move the EVSE to charge the car inside as well as outside. I tend to charge outside in the summer to avoid having the volt's AC kick in spewing heat into the garage when it's hot outside. Today I use my L1 charger outside, and wish I could use the L2.

GM's warning, no extension cords, period.

 

[tacman7]

I would opt for more outlets where you need them and use the chargers as they were designed as well.