Two connectors can both be labelled “50A” and look almost identical, yet come with contacts for different cable sizes. That’s one reason an Anderson plug is worth choosing by more than its colour or the number on the housing.
Why do 50A connectors come with different contacts?
Our Anderson SB50 PT4420 is supplied with contacts for 6 AWG cable. The PT4425 50A connector comes with contacts for 8 AWG cable.
The 50A figure describes the listed current rating; AWG describes the wire size the supplied contacts are intended to accept. The outside of the connector can look similar while the cable-fitting part differs. That’s why the cable size is useful information when asking for a replacement.
Do I need a male and a female plug?
Anderson SB50 connectors use a “genderless” design: matching housings connect to each other, rather than needing a separate male and female version. Each housing still needs its own contacts and wiring.
A connector supplied with two contacts is one end of a connection, not necessarily a complete pair of plugs. If you’re making both ends, that distinction affects what you need.
Is the colour just a preference?
On genuine Anderson SB50 housings, colour is linked to mechanical keying: the housing shape controls which versions can connect. Different colours should not automatically be treated as interchangeable. Grey and black SB50 housings are a documented exception because they share the same keying.
For an existing setup, the connector series and keying matter alongside the contacts. A similar-looking plug from another series is not confirmed compatible just because it carries the same current rating.
Does a 50A plug make the whole connection suitable for 50A?
The connector’s rating is only one part of the wiring arrangement. Cable size, cable length and the quality of the termination also matter. Buying a higher-rated housing does not upgrade the cable attached to it.
Components at Delacey’s
Our Automotive Connectors & Power Components range includes loose connectors and contacts for suitable projects and replacement work. A photo of an existing connector and its cable markings can help us identify the relevant options.
You’ll find us at 40B George Street, Bowen, or at sales@bowenbirite.com.au. Australia-wide postage is available on eligible products.