Can You Extend the Ground Wire When Installing Trailer Wiring?

Published 11/21/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way to 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat

(463)

$33.94

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(103)

$1.80

Ring Terminal - 12-10 Gauge Wire - 5/16" Ring ID

(68)

$0.88

Question:

I purchased Item # C57672. The ground wire is too short to reach any metal other than the hitch itself. Should I extend the ground to run it somewhere else? Or what is my best course of action.

asked by: Jess

Expert Reply:

The Curt Trailer Connector # C57672 should be grounded to any paint and debris free surface, preferably the vehicle frame; since the hitch is painted, it's not going to provide the best ground source for your 7 way connection. You can extend the ground and run it to a more convenient spot on the vehicle and you'll want to use a ring terminal like # 44-5356A (similar to the one found on the end of the ground wire of the C57672). If you need additional wiring, you can use # 10-1-1 which is sold by the foot.

I've linked an installation video for a 7 way connector on a vehicle that you might find helpful in your installation process.

expert reply by: Erik B