Is 12 Volt Accessory Circuit Needed on Trailer Wiring

Question:

I own a 1998 Ford E-250. It has a factory installed 7-way plug at the rear which was damaged and I am attempting to replace. I tested the leads and I have continuity on all leads except for the 12v power lead. Should the 12v lead have power and if so, how do I fix this?

asked by: Chris L

Expert Reply:

The 12 volt accessory circuit of a 7-way trailer wiring socket isn't always active from the factory and also isn't always needed so you may not have any problems. If you don't have any accessories than run off of this circuit like trailer interior lighting or a battery to charge you can just leave it not connected.

If you do need this circuit active you can run a length of 10 gauge wire from the pin with part # 10-1-1 (which we sell by the foot) up to the positive post of the battery through a breaker like part # 9510 and you'd be set.

expert reply by: Jameson C