Anderson SB / Powerpole Connectors
Anderson SB50 (gray, 50A) and SB175 (red, 175A) connectors are the off-road standard for quick-disconnect heavy loads — winches, jumper cables, solar input.
Anderson Powerpole-style connectors are genderless (you can mate any two of the same size), make a low-resistance connection, and disconnect cleanly even under partial load. The XJ community uses them everywhere:
- SB50 (gray housing): 50A continuous, fits 6-10 AWG. Use for solar input panels, fridge feed-throughs, jumper cable extensions, removable accessories.
- SB175 (red housing, larger): 175A continuous, fits 1/0-2 AWG. Use for winch quick-disconnects (mount one on front bumper and rear bumper so you can move the winch), and trailer power.
- SB50 colored housings only mate with same color — gray-to-gray, red-to-red. Useful for keying so you don't accidentally cross-connect.
Crimping requires the proper Anderson crimper or a hammer crimper that can do the contacts. Always solder the strands inside the contact after crimping for max conductivity, but be aware soldered crimps are more brittle.
Protip: PP15/PP30/PP45 Powerpoles (smaller, red+black housings that snap together) are great for radio gear and accessory wiring inside the cabin.
Why it works
- quick disconnect
- rated for high amps
- genderless
Trade-offs
- need correct crimper
- ugly if not enclosed
Tools required
- Anderson crimper
- hex crimp tool
- wire strippers
Parts
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Anderson SB50 gray with 6 AWG contacts | Anderson Power Products | ~$12 |
| Anderson SB175 red with 1/0 AWG contacts | Anderson Power Products | ~$30 |
Sources
Related
- Solar Trickle / Anderson Powerpole Solar Input
- Alternator Replacement and Upgrade — 4.0L XJ
- All Jeep Cherokee XJ guides & tools
- Browse the full DIY database
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. How we source guides. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.