Compatibility of Aluminum Wire With Copper Trailer Wiring

Updated 10/09/2018 | Published 10/08/2018

Products Featured in This Question

12 Gauge Wire - Black Primary - Per Foot

(30)

$2.02

16 Gauge Primary Wire - Black - Per Foot

(63)

$1.05

Question:

I have bunch of alum wire strandsd 12ga. Copper coated is this ok to use to wire small trailer with lights and electric brakes on one axle. Thanks

asked by: Gary M

Expert Reply:

You do not want to mix aluminum with copper like found in the trailer connectors like # 50-67-103 as well as the trailer lights and brake magnets. The dissimilar metals will cause galvanic corrosion and can cause wire failure. I recommend instead using # 12-1-1 and # 16-1-1 sold by the foot for your wiring needs.

expert reply by: Jason S