Recommended Wire Gauge for Wiring Electric Brakes on Trailer

Updated 03/05/2018 | Published 03/03/2018

Products Featured in This Question

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.89

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$2.01

Question:

I have a 16-foot, dual axle, flat bed trailer with electric trailer brakes on one axle both wheels. I am totally rewiring the trailer to include lights and brakes. What gauge wire would you recommend for running from trailer connector to brakes? I am also replacing the trailer connector with you part # WG54006-043.

asked by: Charles F

Helpful Expert Reply:

For your flat bed trailer, I recommend using 12 gauge wire like # 12-1-1 at the minimum, but preferably 10 gauge wire like # 10-1-1. Both of these wires are sold by the foot, so you can order the exact length you are needing. If you were to use a thinner gauge wire than this, the 12V power needed to activate the electric brakes may be enough to overload the wires and cause them to overheat.

I have attached an article on adding electric trailer brakes to a trailer that you might also find helpful. Towards the bottom of the article there is a section that focuses on wiring the trailer.

expert reply by: Chris R