Can Vehicle 7-Way Connector Power a Light Duty Boat Trailer Winch with 11-Ampere Draw

Published 04/23/2015

Products Featured in This Question

7-Way Round RV Style Trailer Connector - Trailer Side

(389)

$13.89

Bulldog Winch Wiring Kit for ATV/UTV Winches - 120" Long Power Lead

(9)

$54.99

Question:

My boat trailer winch is a light-duty unit that draws a max of 20amps IF under full strain. I never come close to that... likely less than 1/2 power is ever used... and only for a short time amount of time with a bit of stop-n-go . Owners manual for winch indicates 1/2 power is 11amps. I appears to me running a dedicated 200 or 300amp direct line is not needed. Power source: I will be using Draw-Tite Accessories and Parts wiring kit - 5505 for power to TV connector. Amp rating must be at least 40amps since this kit come with a 40amp breaker. FYI... will use Deka Accessories and Parts - 10-1-1 for brake controller line. So can I use a trailer side 7-way connector and use pole #1 and #4 to run ground and hot to my light-duty electric boat winch? THANKS!

asked by: David K

Expert Reply:

The 40-amp circuit on your 7-way is really intended for delivering only a modest current to maintain an already-charged trailer battery while you're driving. It is not really intended for operating a power-hungry item such as a winch.

A safer option and one that will let the winch work at its fullest capacity is a winch wiring kit like # BDW20307 that includes heavy 6-gauge wiring and connectors. You might refer to the linked article on wiring winches.

Since I do not know the specifics of your winch I suggest you follow that manufacturer's guidelines as stated in the winch installation instructions.

expert reply by: Adam R