Connecting different gauge wires

I have a Trigger 6 shooter switch panel that come with 14 and 12 gauge wires

I bought pod lights from diode dynamic which the pigtail provided are 18 awg wire

How do I connect the two different gauge wire without causing electrical problem?

 

That won’t be a problem. You can either use good quality butt splices or twist and solder the wires directly.

 

I’ve done it on several projects, Al have been fine going between the two. More so going from a smaller gauge to a larger.

things could heat up going from a larger gauge supply to smaller depending on load rating

 

^

Adding ~ there are soldering connections that don’t require solder. Just heat

 

Like this. I still solder them because I’m used to it but not needed

 

I usually use crimp on spade connectors in that case. Get the right size for each wire and the spade part that connects is always the same, so it makes it easy. If you never need to disconnect it again then put heat shrink over the whole thing once it's connected.

Or if it's under the truck/ in the engine bay get some weather pack connectors. Same idea.

 

That what I did for my ditch lights

The thing is I can't find the right crimp connector

I found a 16 awg to 12 awg crimp connector
But I can't find a 18 awg to 14 or 12 awg connector

 

What I posted works with multiple gauges and weather proof

 

That I'm concern about because the pods will be attached to my roof rack
so the wires will be expose to the elements

 

There’s nothing to be worried about. Crimp them and use a good heat shrink tubing and you’ll be fine.

 

I use step down butt splices. They work magnificently well. Thomas and betts crimper makes a ridiculously solid crimp, stronger than the wire. Can’t ask for more.

https://m.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887.h_801888

Haven’t soldered wiring in over 10 years and I don’t plan to ever do so again.

 

It's ok to expose wire that's going to heat up when being used?
Sounds like the wire is going to wear out faster or damaged wherever the wire is mounted against.

 

Nothing will be heating up abnormally. You’re thinking into this way too much. There is no downside to stepping down from a thicker gauge wire to a smaller gauge when the amperage is still well within the capacity of the smaller wire.

 

Ok
The Amp for the pair is 5.4amp
2.7amp for one (12.8V)

 

I also use step-down butt connectors. Bought from Del-City as well.

https://www.delcity.net/store/Non!Insulated-Step!Down-Butt-Connectors/p_801887.h_801888

https://www.delcity.net/store/Clear!View-Heat-Shrink-&-Crimp-Step-Down-Connectors/p_809306.h_809307