How To Convert Trailer Coupler With Manual Reverse Lockout To Electric Reverse Lockout

Question:

I have a 2015 Ford Explorer, without a factory tow kit. I want to add a 5 pin connector, so that Ill be able to back up with the trailer, without having to manually lock out the trailer brake. Is there a way to do this? What I have been able to find is the add 4 pin easy, then with another part, convert that to a 5 pin. Believe I have found the add 7 pin as well, but dont need most of that. Can I just add a 5 pin? Thank you,

asked by: Glen S

Expert Reply:

Depending on the coupler you currently have you may be able to do a conversion so that you have an electric reverse lockout.

If you have Titan Model 6, Model 60, Aero 7500, and newer Model 10 and Model 20 actuators, or Dico Models 10, 20, and 60 actuators you can use the Titan Solenoid Kit # T4748800. This gets attached to the back of the master cylinder in the coupler you have. You will have to modify the trailer so that the brake line mates up with the new solenoid. then attach one of the black wires to the trailer with a ring terminal for ground. I have attached a link to an installation video you can check out.

If you have a different model or make actuator on your trailer, let me know and I will check to see if we have something that will work for you.

If you have a 4-way connector on your Explorer you will need to convert your 4-way to a 5-way, so you will need part # 20036. This will plug into the 4-way on your Explorer and will give you an additional wire that will get run to the reverse light circuit of your vehicle so that it can activate the lock out.

If you have no trailer connector at the back of your Explorer, you will first need to install a 4-way trailer connector like part # 118540. I have attached a link to an installation of this harness on a 2015 Ford Explorer. The harness is plugged into the vehicle wiring located under the vehicle on the passenger side near the muffler.

When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the electrical connections and helps prevent corrosion.

You will need to remove the 4-way connector on your trailer and then install part # HM47910 in place of it. You will need to attach the wire with Blue on it to the second wire on the solenoid. Attach the rest of the wires to the trailer wiring as shown.