Connection Recommendation for Connecting 12 Gauge and 20 Gauge Wire

Question:

I looking at buying the MCL95AB Side Marker Lights and I need ones with a center mounting post. It Appears that these lights have a 12 gauge wire and the wiring harness has a 20 gauge wire. I want to use quick splice connectors to connect these lights to the wiring harness, but I not sure which size to use, since I will be working with two different size wires.

asked by: Jeff B

Expert Reply:

I wouldn't recommend using quick splice connectors when trying to connect to different gauge wires (as well as in general). Ideally you solder the connection or you use butt connectors. If you use butt connectors you'll want to use the yellow ones like part # DW05745-10 which are for 10 to 12 gauge wires. On the lighter gauge wire you'd need to strip back quite a bit more wire than needed and then fold the wire core a few times to thicken it up and allow the butt connectors to grab them.

expert reply by: Jameson C