Using mixed wire gauges?

I am installing a small compressor in the rear of my truck which is approx. 16 feet from the power source. Using the supplied 16 gauge wire, I figure that I will lose about 1 1/2 volts at the compressor. My question is whether I gain anything by running 12 gauge wire from the power source to the compressor although the fuse tap and wiring at the compressor (about 3 feet) is 16 gauge?

 

as far as i know, the 12 gauge wire would carry the current a lil better. i'd go for it.

 

Thanks. That's my thinking too but not sure about the smaller wire at each end. Does that cancel out the benefit of the heavier wire in between?

 

i wouldnt really think so,since you'll be running the wire a good distance, this is more or less to keep the current from breaking down as it goes that distance.

 

Cool, thanks again. Off to the parts store!

 

no prob.