What is the Wire Size for the 12 Volt Circuit on a 7-Way Trailer Connector

Question:

2001 Chevy Silverado what gauge wire is the auxiliary power on the trailer plug? I need a 10 gauge to hook up a 12v fuel transfer pump that sits on a 500 gal barrel.

asked by: Steve N

Expert Reply:

For vehicles with 7-Way trailer connectors the 12 volt circuit is usually 12 to 10 gauge but I cannot say for sure what it is on a 2001 Chevy Silverado. Aftermarket 7-Ways generally use 12 gauge.

What is the amperage draw of the pump? The factory tow package wiring 12 volt circuit uses stud 1 under the hood at the power distribution box. You can check it to see what the fuse associated with that stud is rated for to make sure the factory wiring has the capacity to handle the pump's power draw (regardless of the wire size used).

Another option is to run your own 10 gauge wire using # 10-1-1, sold by the foot, directly to the vehicle battery via a 40 amp circuit breaker # 9510.

expert reply by: Michael H