Can The 7-Way Trailer Connection Be Used To Power Winch If Vehicle Is Running

Published 12/21/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Bulldog Winch Trailer Winch - Wire Rope - Roller Fairlead - 4,400 lbs

(101)

$338.24

Bulldog Winch Quick-Connect Set w/Dust Cover - 175 A - 2 ga

(14)

$44.99

Starter Solenoid - SPST - 12 Volt - 100 Amp - Continuous Duty - Grounded

(13)

$33.90

Question:

Can the 7 pin plug be used to power the winch if I have my truck running?

asked by: John C

Helpful Expert Reply:

The wiring that feeds the 12-volt accessory circuit on the 7-way trailer connector is of too small a gauge to allow enough power to pass through to run a winch. The main function of that circuit would be for lighter-duty applications, such as providing power for interior trailer lights or to maintain a trailer mounted battery.

The Bulldog Winch Trailer Winch - Wire Rope - Roller Fairlead - 4,400 lbs, # BDW15019, will require some power as it draws 28 amps at 0 lbs but 340 amps at full capacity. It requires a 6 gauge battery lead wire and most 7 way power wires are 10 gauge.

To provide power for your trailer mounted winch, you can either install a battery on the trailer to power it, or use a quick disconnect like # BDW20133 and power the winch directly from the vehicle battery. The 7-way 12-volt circuit can then be used to maintain the trailer mounted battery, however it will not charge a dead battery.

If you decide to power the winch from the vehicle battery, I would recommend using a battery isolator like part # PK5231201. The isolator will shut down the power feed to the winch once the tow vehicle is shut off, preventing the battery from being discharged.

I've attached an article that may help.