16 Gauge Wiring Options for the Hopkins Replacement Endurance 4-Way Trailer Connector

Question:

I am ordering Item # W787274, 14foot Wesbar 4 wire cable that is 14 gauge. I wanted to terminate this wire with HM48192 connector which states it is for 18 or 16 gauge wire. Will I be able to use the heavier Wesbar 14 gauge wire with this connector IF I strip the wires bare when assembling the connector? I noticed the photos show the wire is pushed onto the fitting without the casing being stripped, so I am hoping that the HM48192 will accomodate the heavier 14 gauge wire stripped.

asked by: Nick R

Helpful Expert Reply:

While it is possible this may work, I did contact Hopkins who confirmed this Hopkins Endurance Quick-Fix Replacement 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector # HM48192 is designed for use with 16 or 18-gauge, not the 14-gauge of the Wesbar 4-Pole Flat Connector w/ Jacketed Cable # W787274. They did not recommend this approach of stripping wires to make it fit.

The Hopkins Endurance Quick-Fix Replacement is not a great long term solution but with the appropriate length of Deka Wire - Jacketed 4-Wire - 16/4 Gauge # DW03240-1 you would in effect have a long enough 16 gauge wire to replicate the length of the Wesbar Jacketed Cable.

expert reply by: Patrick R