Before I go looking over there, the wiring suggested is 18 to 20 gauge wire. I was thinking to be safe, and create less heat, was to use 16 gauge wiring. I have done plenty of car audio installations and know plenty about wire and I will get as close to virgin copper as i can for the wire. Being 16 gauge, it wont be that expensive. Since I have all the time in the world with this project, I can take time to hide the wires. As far as heat goes, the heatsink should be warm, but you should be able to pick it up without a problem. I have seen wire insulation melt when in contact with a heatsink on a car audio amp before. I think it was due to poor wiring and way too small gauge to deliver power to the amp so it was running hot anyways. going to take a look at the wiring.