Upfitter switches are essential for truck owners who want to add extra equipment to their vehicles. Ford’s F250 truck has up to six auxiliary switches that allow you to control additional features such as lights, pumps, and fans. However, wiring the upfitter switches can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the process. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to wiring the upfitter switches on your 2020 F250 truck.
What are Upfitter Switches?
Upfitter switches are switches that are built into a vehicle by the manufacturer, which allow you to control after-market equipment or accessories. They are designed to handle high current devices such as utility lights, winches, or air compressors. In the 2020 F250 truck, there are up to six factory-installed upfitter switches that are located on the instrument panel. These switches can be used to control various electrical loads, depending on the specific configuration of your truck.
Where are the Upfitter Switches Located?
The upfitter switches in the 2020 F250 truck are located on the instrument panel, just to the left of the steering wheel. The switches are labeled from 1 to 6, with each switch having its own unique function. The labels for each switch depend on the specific options that were ordered with your truck. It is important to consult the owner’s manual to verify the specific function of each switch in your vehicle.
What is the Purpose of the Upfitter Switches?
The purpose of the upfitter switches is to provide a convenient and safe way to control after-market equipment or accessories that are added to your vehicle. For example, if you want to add a set of auxiliary lights to your truck, you can connect them to one of the upfitter switches, allowing you to easily turn them on or off. The upfitter switches are designed to handle high current devices, and each switch is protected by its own fuse, ensuring that any connected device is safe and properly protected.
Wiring the Upfitter Switches
The wiring diagram for the 2020 F250 upfitter switches can be found in the truck’s owner’s manual. The wiring diagram provides a clear picture of how each switch is wired to the electrical system of the vehicle. The wiring diagram can be used as a reference when installing after-market equipment or accessories that require connection to one of the upfitter switches.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wiring the Upfitter Switches
Here is a step-by-step guide to wiring the upfitter switches on your 2020 F250 truck:
- Remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid any accidental electrical discharge.
- Locate the upfitter switch wiring harness, which is located under the hood on the driver’s side of the vehicle. The wiring harness consists of six wires, which correspond to the six upfitter switches.
- Connect the appropriate wire from the upfitter switch wiring harness to the wires of the after-market equipment or accessory that you want to control using the upfitter switch. Make sure to use appropriate connectors and crimping tools to ensure a secure connection.
- Route the wires from the after-market equipment or accessory to the location where you want to install the switch. Make sure to securely attach the wires to any metal surfaces using zip ties or other fasteners.
- Install the upfitter switch into the desired location, and connect it to the wires from the after-market equipment or accessory that you want to control. Make sure that the switch is properly secured in place.
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery, and test the functionality of the upfitter switch by turning the device on and off using the switch.
Upfitter Switch Wiring Diagram
| Switch Number | Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Switch 1 | Red/Black | Battery Voltage |
| Switch 2 | Red/Light Green | Accessory Power 1 |
| Switch 3 | Red/Violet | Accessory Power 2 |
| Switch 4 | Red/Yellow | Accessory Power 3 |
| Switch 5 | Red/Orange | Accessory Power 4 |
| Switch 6 | Red/Pink | Accessory Power 5 |
FAQ
1. How do I know which wire is which on the upfitter switch wiring harness?
The upfitter switch wiring harness is labeled with the function of each wire. Refer to the wiring diagram in the owner’s manual to verify the function of each wire before connecting them to the after-market device or accessory.
2. Can I add additional upfitter switches to my 2020 F250 truck?
Yes, Ford provides an upfitter switch upgrade kit that allows you to add up to four additional switches to your truck. The kit includes a new switch bank and wiring harness, which can be installed by a qualified technician.
3. Can I use the upfitter switches to control equipment or accessories that are not designed for high current use?
No, the upfitter switches are designed to handle high current devices only. Using them to control low current equipment or accessories may damage the switch or cause a short circuit, which can lead to electrical damage or fire.
4. Is it possible to wire the upfitter switches incorrectly?
Yes, wiring the upfitter switches incorrectly can potentially damage the electrical system of your vehicle or the after-market equipment or accessory that you are controlling. Make sure to follow the wiring diagram carefully, and use appropriate connectors and crimping tools to ensure a secure and safe connection.
5. Do I need any special tools or equipment to wire the upfitter switches?
Not necessarily, but having a crimping tool, wire stripper, and electrical tape can make the process much easier and safer. Additionally, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, when working with electrical systems.
