What is the Difference between the Hopkins Trailer Wiring Harnesses HM20041 and H20046?

Updated 10/01/2025 | Published 09/16/2021

Question:

Hello, The cable for my trailer lights was damaged when it got trapped in my weight dist hitch. I am looking for a replacement cable. Can you tell me the difference between these two part numbers? I dont see any distinguishing characteristics. HM20041 H20046 Thanks for your advice.

asked by: Markus

Helpful Expert Reply:

There isn't really a lot of differences between the Hopkins 7-Way RV Style Connector with Molded Cable - 8' Long - RV Standard H20046 and Hopkins 7-Way Blade Style Connector with Molded Cable - 8' Long - Auto Standard HM20041. Both are 8 feet long and will fit in the standard 7 Way vehicle plug and even use the same gauge wires. However, it is actually the colors of the wires that are different.

The HM20041 will use the auto-industry standard: Black (12v Power), White (Ground), Purple (Reverse/Aux), Green (Right Turn/Brake), Yellow (Left Turn/Brake), Brown (Tail Lights), and Blue (Trailer Brakes).

On the other hand, the H20046 will use the RV standard: Black (12v Power), White (Ground), Red (Left Turn/Brake), Brown (Right Turn/Brake), Green (Tail Lights), Blue (Trailer Brakes), and Yellow (Reverse/Aux).

With that being said, these are completely interchangeable with each other, but you will need to keep the wiring color in mind while installing.

expert reply by: Lazer S

Jeff B.

9/29/2025

Thanks for clear explanation of the wiring color differences. Why the significant price difference? The HM20041 is ~80% more.

Lazer S.

10/1/2025

@JeffB You're very welcome! The price difference has to do with some kind of computery algorithmic technology stuff that I am far too much of a caveman to understand. To be perfectly honest though, Hopkins makes very good pigtails and either one of these will be durable and long lived. If you are needing a replacement, I would go with the least expensive one. It will serve you well. Just make sure you wire the colors to function. : )