Can 7-Way Wiring be Used to Power Headache Rack Lighting Functions

Updated 08/05/2020 | Published 07/25/2020

Question:

i am going to purchase the said wiring harness. I also want to tie in my headache rack lights to this harness rather than the factory truck wiring. The rack does have 3 lights on each side tail, turn and reverse light. What is the best wiring with the correct voltage to use to tie into with. Also do you happen to have the color indicator on the wiring harness that i am going to purchase so i can connect the correct turn light, tail light etc from the rack to it. Please and thank you

asked by: Thomas G

Helpful Expert Reply:

The problem with using 7-way wiring for a headache rack is that there isn't a dedicated stoplight circuit so if the rack has a third brake light you won't find the correct circuit at this harness. The turn signals, running lights, and reverse lights are present though with the # HM42137. I attached a diagram that shows where you'll find them.

expert reply by: Jameson C

click to enlarge

Thomas G.

7/29/2020

so does this mean i can use the wire harness that has the attached part number in your response. Also what type of wire would you recommend to come from the rack lights to the plug if you are recommending this plug.

Jon G.

8/5/2020

You can use the Hopkins # HM42137 wiring kit if your 2000 - 2009 Dodge Ram (various models) has the factory 7-Way. If you plan on using this solely for the lighting on the rack then I'd just use a trailer connector like part # PK12706 and the desired length of 16 Gauge Wire # 16-4B-1 to connect the rack lights to this connector. Otherwise just use this same 16 Gauge Wire and splice it into the back of that 7-Way.