Wire Gauge for 12V Power Feed on 7-Way on 2016 Ford F-150

Updated 07/18/2017 | Published 07/16/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3555)

$118.78

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(109)

$1.90

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$1.68

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(70)

$12.41

Question:

the wire for 12v power on my 2016 f-150 is not as large as the blue brake wire all the wires are smaller than the four wire flat wires except the blue wire? is the orange wire still ok to use for power even though it is smaller gauge?

asked by: Verne S

Expert Reply:

OEM trailer wiring will typically use larger-gauge wire for ground, trailer brakes and 12V trailer power, either 12-gauge like # 12-1-1 or heavier 10-gauge like # 10-1-1. The other wires for the basic lighting signals are usually 16-gauge. Vehicle manufacturers can change the color of the wires they use in production without any notice so confirming with a circuit tester like # PTW2993 is the best way to verify the function carried on any wire.

The linked video show how the tester is used to detect a signal.

expert reply by: Adam R