Activating Reverse Light Circuit of 7-Way Connector and 12 Volt Accessory Only When Key is On

Question:

Hello I just installed a 7 pin wire trailer plug on my van and had a couple questions. For the reverse wire can I just tap into the reverse wire at the driver rear light like the 4 pin kit dose? Also for the 12v feed from the battery for the trailer I have a 40 amp breaker but was wondering if I could also use a relay so that there is only power to the trailer when car is running? I don’t want to chance the trailer discharging the vans battery while its off.

asked by: Tyler H

Expert Reply:

The short answer to both of your questions is "yes." You can tap into the reverse light circuit of your Grand Caravan for the reverse light circuit of the trailer wiring, but you should note that this circuit isn't always needed for trailer wiring so if you don't have a need for a reverse light circuit (no reverse lights, lock out solenoid) then you won't have to complete it for the trailer wiring to function.

Then for an isolation solenoid to allow your 12 volt accessory circuit to only come on when the vehicle is on you'd want the # PK5231201.

expert reply by: Jameson C