When it comes to installing communication and electrical equipment on a vehicle like the 2017 F350, you may find yourself needing to wire up auxiliaries like strobe lights, a winch or any other 12V equipment. Fortunately, the F350 comes with upfitter switches that make this job much easier. Upfitter switches are nothing but pre-wired circuits that you can tap into without having to run wires all the way from the battery, making your job a lot less complex.
What are Upfitter Switches on the F350?
The 2017 F350 comes with up to six upfitter switches depending on the configuration of the model you have. Upfitter switches are pre-wired circuits that allow you to connect auxiliary equipment to your truck without having to splice into the factory wiring or run separate wires all the way from the battery. These switches are commonly referred to as “Auxiliary Power Switches” and are typically found in the center console of the truck, right above the radio.
How Do You Use Upfitter Switches?
The upfitter switches are essentially connectors that allow you to hook up your auxiliary equipment. To use the switches, simply connect your equipment to the corresponding wires that are pre-wired to the switch. For instance, if you want to hook up strobe lights, connect the positive wire to one of the switch wires and the negative to ground. This allows you to operate the lights from within the truck, using the switch to turn them on and off.
Where Can I Find the Upfitter Switches?
The 2017 F350 upfitter switches are located in the center console of the truck. They are labeled “Auxiliary Power Switches” and have a variety of symbols that indicate the type of equipment they are intended to be used with. Once you have located the switches, you can use them to connect your auxiliary equipment.
2017 F350 Upfitter Switch Wiring Diagram
The wiring diagram for the 2017 F350 upfitter switches is pretty straightforward. It follows a standard color code for the wires and you can find this diagram on the manufacturer’s website, or in the manual that comes with your truck. Here is a basic outline of the colors for each wire:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| White/Black Stripe | Fused B+ Vehicle Battery Positive Voltage |
| Light Blue | Ignition 3 Voltage |
| Yellow | Auxiliary Switch 1 |
| Tan | Auxiliary Switch 2 |
| Gray | Auxiliary Switch 3 |
| Dark Blue | Auxiliary Switch 4 |
| Green | Auxiliary Switch 5 |
| Orange | Auxiliary Switch 6 |
How to Read a Wiring Diagram
Reading a wiring diagram can be a bit of a challenge if you’re not familiar with the process. The good news is that the 2017 F350 upfitter switch wiring diagram is pretty straightforward. First, identify the wire color and function you want to use, then find the corresponding connector on the wiring diagram. The wiring diagram will show you which wires connect to each other and where they go on your truck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Upfitter Switches Used For?
The upfitter switches on the F350 are pre-wired circuits that allow you to connect auxiliary equipment to your truck without having to splice into the factory wiring or run separate wires all the way from the battery. They can be used to power any 12V equipment, like strobe lights, a winch, or even a compressor for your airbags.
How Many Upfitter Switches Does the 2017 F350 Have?
The 2017 F350 comes with up to six upfitter switches depending on the configuration of the model. The switches are located in the center console of the truck and are labeled “Auxiliary Power Switches.”
What is the Purpose of the Wiring Diagram?
The wiring diagram serves as a guide for connecting your equipment to the upfitter switches. It outlines the color codes of the wires and the connectors that they go into. By using the wiring diagram, you can tap into the pre-wired circuits and connect your equipment to the upfitter switches without having to splice into the factory wiring.
Can You Use Upfitter Switches to Power a Winch?
Yes, you can use the upfitter switches to power a winch, but make sure that the winch is compatible with the rating of the switch. Most upfitter switches are rated at 30 amps, so you need to make sure that your winch draws less than this amount. Additionally, you’ll need to install a separate circuit breaker to protect the wiring from overheating in case of a short circuit.
Can You Use the Upfitter Switches to Power Interior Lights?
Yes, you can use the upfitter switches to power interior lights. However, it’s important to note that the upfitter switches are only powered when the engine is running. If you want your interior lights to be on all the time, you’ll need to run a separate wire from the battery to a toggle switch inside the cab.
Can You Add More Upfitter Switches to Your Truck?
Yes, you can add more upfitter switches to your truck, but it’s recommended that you use a professional installer. The upfitter switches are designed to handle a certain amount of current, so if you exceed this rating, you could risk damaging your vehicle. A professional installer can help you choose the right switches and wiring for your needs, and make sure that everything is installed safely and according to code.
Conclusion
The 2017 F350 upfitter switches are a great asset to anyone who needs to install auxiliary equipment on their truck. They simplify the wiring process and make it easy to hook up any 12V equipment like strobe lights, winches or compressors. Additionally, the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer is easy to follow and clearly outlines how to connect your equipment. By following these guidelines and frequently asked questions, you can safely and effectively use the upfitter switches on your F350 to power all of your auxiliary equipment.
