Installing a 5 Pole Trailer Connector on a Ford Explorer with Factory Trailer Wiring
Question:
Need to go to a 5 pin flat for trailer with surge braking, blue wire hookup needed . Easiest method with a factory wiring setup currently, new harness , upgrade to 7 blade unit with adaptors for 5 flat etc.
asked by: Ralph M
Expert Reply:
If you only need a 5-pin trailer connector for your trailer, then the Tow Ready 4 Pole to 5 Pole Adapter, # 20036, would be the easiest option. This adapter plugs into your existing 4-way trailer connector and has an additional blue wire. The blue wire will splice into the reverse light circuit on your Explorer.
The best place to find the reverse light wire is at the back of the taillight assemblies. To access the back of the taillight assemblies, you may have to loosen or remove the interior trim panels in the cargo area. You may also be able to find the reverse light wire by pulling the taillight assembly off of the vehicle. Be careful when removing the taillight assembly because they will be attached to wires.
To determine which wire is the reverse light wire, I recommend using a circuit tester, like part # PTW2993 to test each wire. Have a helper get in the drivers seat, set the emergency brake and hold the brake pedal while the vehicle is in reverse. Once you have located the reverse light wire, you can use the included quick splice to make the connection.
Products Referenced in This Question
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tow Ready 4 Pole to 5 Pole Trailer Wiring Adapter
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Single-Function Adapter
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- 5 Flat
- Tow Ready
more information >
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Can a 4-Way Trailer Connector be Plugged Into a 5-Way Vehicle End Trailer Connector
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Best 4-Way Trailer Wiring Harness For 2024 Toyota RAV4
- Article: Trailer Tire Sizing
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 5-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Install 5-Way on 2019 Toyota RAV4
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Q&A: Do the Colors of Trailer Brake Magnets Mean Anything
- Article: Trailer Maintenance Schedule
- Q&A: What is the Function of the 5th Pin on a Trailer Connector 5-Way Flat Connector
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Hitch for a 2024 Toyota RAV4
- Q&A: Seal With Dimensions to Replace 171255UC
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern