Upfitting a Ford, especially a Super Duty F-Series or Super Duty Chassis Cab, is an important part of many industries, including construction and emergency services. One of the major components of upfitting is the addition of upfitter switches. These switches allow for the easy control of auxiliary equipment, such as lights, sirens, and other accessories. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2018 Ford Upfitter Switches Wiring Diagram, including its components, installation process, and frequently asked questions.
What are Upfitter Switches in Ford?
Upfitter switches are a series of auxiliary switches that are built into the electrical system of Ford trucks. These switches allow for the installation and control of aftermarket accessories and equipment, such as winches, lights, and sirens. Ford offers up to six upfitter switches that are located on the instrument panel of the truck for easy access and control. The switches are designed to provide a safe, convenient way to manage the added electrical loads without overloading the vehicle’s stock electrical system.
Components of Upfitter Switches
The upfitter switches in Ford trucks consist of several components:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Switches | The actual switch that controls the electrical circuit. |
| Wiring Harness | The set of wires that connect the switches to the auxiliary equipment. |
| Relays | The devices that control the flow of electrical current to the auxiliary equipment. |
Installation of Upfitter Switches
Installation of upfitter switches requires some basic electrical knowledge and experience. The process involves the following steps:
- Locating the upfitter switch wires and connectors, which are typically located under the hood near the battery.
- Running the wiring harness from the switches to the auxiliary equipment.
- Connecting the upfitter switch wires to the auxiliary equipment.
- Installing the relays and connecting them to the upfitter wires and the auxiliary equipment.
- Testing the circuit to ensure that everything is working properly.
2018 Ford Upfitter Switches Wiring Diagram
The 2018 Ford Upfitter Switches Wiring Diagram provides a visual representation of the wiring and connections between the upfitter switches and the auxiliary equipment. The diagram is divided into several sections, each representing a different system or function of the upfitter switches. The diagram is a valuable resource for anyone who is installing or troubleshooting the upfitter switches and auxiliary equipment.
FAQs
1. Can I add more than six upfitter switches?
No, Ford only offers up to six upfitter switches for each truck. However, it is possible to add additional switches using an aftermarket wiring harness and relay system.
2. What is the maximum amperage load for each upfitter switch?
The maximum amperage load for each upfitter switch is 25 amps. It is important to ensure that the total electrical load of all the auxiliary equipment does not exceed the maximum capacity of the truck’s electrical system.
3. Can the upfitter switches be controlled using a mobile device?
No, the upfitter switches are hardwired to the truck’s electrical system and cannot be controlled using a mobile device.
4. What is the warranty on the upfitter switches?
The upfitter switches are covered under the Ford factory warranty for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
5. Can the upfitter switches be installed on older Ford models?
The upfitter switches are designed specifically for the 2018 Ford models and may not be compatible with older Ford trucks. Consult with a Ford dealer or professional upfitter for more information and compatibility.
In conclusion, the 2018 Ford Upfitter Switches Wiring Diagram is an essential tool for anyone who is upfitting a Ford truck. The upfitter switches provide a safe, convenient way to control auxiliary equipment and the wiring diagram ensures that everything is wired correctly and safely. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the upfitter switches or their installation, consult with a Ford dealer or professional upfitter for assistance.
