If you are a proud owner of a 2018 Ford F350, you probably already know how versatile this truck can be. One of the best features of this powerful machine is the upfitter switches that allow you to control various accessories, such as lights, sirens, air compressors, and winches. However, wiring these switches can be a daunting task, especially if you have never done it before. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about the 2018 F350 upfitter switch wiring diagram.
What Are Upfitter Switches?
Upfitter switches are a group of auxiliary switches that are located on the instrument panel of your F350. These switches are pre-wired into the electrical system of the truck, and they provide power to various aftermarket accessories that you may want to install. Ford offers two different upfitter switch options on the 2018 F350, each with four switches:
| Switch Group | Function |
|---|---|
| Upfitter Switches (High Series) | Provides 10 amps of power to each switch |
| Upfitter Switches (Mid Series) | Provides 25 amps of power to each switch |
One important thing to note is that the upfitter switches are only active when the engine is running, and they are not intended for use while the vehicle is in motion. Also, it is essential to follow the guidelines provided by Ford when wiring your accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system of the truck.
Why Do You Need Upfitter Switches?
The upfitter switches on the 2018 F350 are designed to make it easy for you to install additional accessories on your truck without having to splice into the factory wiring. This means that you can add lights, sirens, and other accessories without worrying about damaging your truck’s electrical system. Additionally, the upfitter switches provide a clean and organized way to control your accessories, as they are located on the instrument panel and allow you to turn them on and off with ease.
Upfitter Switch Wiring Diagram
When it comes to wiring your upfitter switches, it is essential to follow the wiring diagram provided by Ford. The wiring diagram will show you how to connect your accessories to the upfitter switches and ensure that they are wired correctly. Here is a wiring diagram for the upfitter switches on the 2018 F350:
| Switch Number | Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Violet/Brown | Accessory 1 |
| 2 | Violet/Yellow | Accessory 2 |
| 3 | Violet/White | Accessory 3 |
| 4 | Violet/Red | Accessory 4 |
The wiring diagram shows that each switch has a specific wire color assigned to it. You will need to connect your accessories to the corresponding wire color to ensure that they are powered correctly. Additionally, the wiring diagram shows that each switch has a fuse assigned to it to protect the electrical system of the truck.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my F350 has upfitter switches?
If your 2018 F350 has upfitter switches, they will be located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. The switches will have a label indicating their function, such as “Aux 1,” “Aux 2,” etc.
2. Can I use the upfitter switches while the vehicle is in motion?
No, the upfitter switches are designed to be used only when the engine is running, and the vehicle is not in motion. Using them while the vehicle is in motion is not recommended and could be dangerous.
3. Can I add more than four accessories to the upfitter switches?
No, the upfitter switches are limited to four accessories, and you should not connect more than one accessory to each switch. Connecting multiple accessories to a single switch could overload the electrical system and cause damage to your truck.
4. What gauge wire should I use for the upfitter switches?
The wire gauge you should use for your upfitter switches will depend on the amperage of the accessories you are connecting. For up to 10 amps, you can use 16-gauge wire. For up to 20 amps, you should use 14-gauge wire, and for up to 30 amps, you should use 12-gauge wire. Always check the specifications of your accessories before wiring them to the upfitter switches.
5. Can I install my accessories without using the upfitter switches?
Yes, you can install your accessories without using the upfitter switches, but it is not recommended. Splicing into the factory wiring can be dangerous and can cause damage to your truck’s electrical system. Additionally, using the upfitter switches provides a clean and organized way to control your accessories.
By following this guide, you should be able to wire your upfitter switches correctly and safely. Remember always to refer to the wiring diagram provided by Ford and use the correct wire gauge for your accessories. Happy wiring!
