Trailer Hitch and Custom Trailer Wiring for a 2008 Dodge Ram Quad Cab 1500 Big Horn

Question:

I am looking at installing a hitch on my 2008 Dodge Ram Quad Cab 1500 Big Horn. It has the factory bracket on already but no hitch so I was looking at the Curt Class III part #13333 and it recommends the wiring #42145 I wanted to make sure that is exactly what I need. Also is that the style plug to use if hauling a trailer behind or motorcycle trailer?

asked by: Shane

Expert Reply:

The 7-Way and 4-Way Replacement Connector, # 42145, is the correct harness for your 2008 Dodge Ram if you already have or had a factory 7-Way. One end mounts to the rear of the vehicle, there might even be a knock out on the bumper that can be removed. The other end plugs into the vehicle wiring. Your truck should have a plug behind the bumper, near the center. It will plug into the square connector of the harness.

If the truck does not already have any connectors, you will need to start from scratch. If the trailer(s) use a 4 flat connector, you will have to use Draw-Tite Wiring, # 119178KIT to hardwire a 4 flat on your truck. This kit includes a circuit tester and everything needed for installation. Connect the wires on this unit to wires behind the taillight as follows:
Green: Right turn
Yellow: Left turn
Brown: Tail light
Red: Brake light

If the trailer(s) require a 7-Way, and your truck does not have the wiring ran for the 42145 harness, you will need the 119178KIT harness, and a 7 and 4 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7, which will proved a 7-Way and 4 flat connection at the rear of the truck. You would first install the 119178KIT, plug the 4-Way connector into the back of the ETBC7, then hardwire the ETBC7. The white wire is ground and will connect to an existing ground point or to the vehicle frame. The blue wire connects to a brake controller in the cab of the truck. The black wire will connect to the vehicle battery via a 40 amp circuit breaker. The purple wire connects to the trucks reverse light wire.

If you do not have or do not plan on installing a brake controller, you will just need to wire the white ground wire and the black power wire. You can tape off the blue wire and secure it out of the way.

The Curt hitch, # 13333, is a Class III hitch that will fit your truck as long as it does not have a factory hitch installed. I am not sure what the bracket is but if there is no hitch it should fit. I have included installation instructions below.