Winch Wiring Recommendation for a Ford F150 at the Rear of the Truck

Updated 11/25/2014 | Published 11/23/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Ford Replacement OEM Tow Package Wiring Harness, 7-Way

(288)

$80.34

Bulldog Winch Rear Wiring Kit - Quick Connect to Terminal End - 2 Gauge - 24' Long

(22)

$364.59

Question:

I have a winch I was connecting through the round 7 wire plug. I turned the key forward and switched the lights from auto to on. Plugged the 7 wire in to check voltage with my meter and the whole truck is dead. Not sure whats happened. Or what fuse to check.

asked by: Paul B

Expert Reply:

The issue you most likely ran into is that winches draw way more amperage than what the 12 volt accessory wire of your 7-way can provide. You would have needed something like the part # BDW20207 to power your winch.

Your going to have to start checking all the fuses in the fuse boxes under the hood of your 2006 Ford F150. It's hard to say exactly what fuse or relay blew but it could be more than one. I would check ignition fuses first. If you can't figure it out you may need to tow the truck to a qualified mechanic and let them fix it.

In the future don't try to power a winch with the 12 volt accessory circuit of a 7-way. I attached an install video for the wiring for you to check out as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C