How To Adapt 2015 Ford Explorer 4-pin To 5-pin on Boat Trailer

Question:

I HAVE A 2015 EXPLORER THAT CURRENTLY HAS A 4 PIN FLAT. I NEED TO GO TO A 5 PIN FLAT FOR BOAT TRAILER WITH BRAKES. WHAT APPLICATION DO I NEED. IM NOT SURE IF IT HAS TOW PACKAGE. DEALER INSTALLED REESE HITCH AND 4 PIN. VEHICLE DASH SETTINGS SHOW A SWAY/TOW SETTING? THANK YOU

asked by: Shawn W

Helpful Expert Reply:

All that you need to adapt the 4-pole flat to the 5 flat on the boat trailer is Tow Ready 4 Pole to 5 Pole Trailer Wiring Adapter part # 20036. Since the boat trailer has a 5 flat then it has a reverse lock out. The blue wire from the 4-pole to 5-pole adapter will need to be spliced into the reverse circuit of the Explorer.

The reverse light circuit is at the back of the taillight assemblies of the Explorer. You may be able to access the back of your taillights by carefully loosening and removing the trim panels directly behind the lights in the rear cargo area. If you cannot reach the wiring that way, the taillights will need to be carefully removed. After you have access to the wires, use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 to test each wire. With the emergency brake on, have someone sit in the driver's seat and depress the brake pedal while the vehicle is in reverse. Once you have located the reverse light wire use the included quick splice to splice in the blue wire from the adapter.

expert reply by: Heather A