Why Use 10-Gauge Wire # 10-2-1 Rather Than 12-Gauge # 12-2-1 for Electric Trailer Brake Circuits

Updated 09/10/2014 | Published 09/07/2014

Products Featured in This Question

12 Gauge 7 Conductor Jacketed Wire - Per Foot

(521)

$10.90

Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot

(332)

$3.97

12 Gauge 2 Conductor Jacketed (Brake) Wire Per Foot

(521)

$3.43

Question:

why use 10-2-1 for electric brakes instead of 12-2-1, The 7 wire DW04914-1 cable uses 12gauge wire for the brakes

asked by: William C

Expert Reply:

You are correct that Deka Jacketed 7-Wire # DW04914-1 uses 12-gauge conductors for all but the ground wire, which is 10-gauge.

There are several variables with trailer brake wiring that we generally do not know when our customers ask about the wire gauge that should be used for re-wiring a trailer's electric brakes. The length of the trailer (and the required wiring) and the number of axles (and brake assemblies) can vary and when we do not know all of the particulars for every installation we recommend heavier wire to avoid the potential for problems that could arise if a too-small wire gauge was used.

expert reply by: Adam R