Comparing 4-Pole Wiring Harness Kits for 2013 Ford Escape

Question:

Hi, Just wondering whats the difference between the two and if one is better than the other before purchasing. Thanks.

asked by: Nezam

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt # C56328 and Tow Ready # 118566 4-pole wiring harnesses that fit your 2013 Ford Escape are very similar powered-type wiring kits. They both include all of the parts required for installation and both are mostly plug-in type products. Both only require you to run one single wire up to the engine compartment, the wire that brings the 12V power to the harness to operate the trailer's lights. Both will protect your Escape's wiring from the risk of a short-circuit that could be caused by a wiring fault on the trailer.

The one main difference between them is the current rating for the two circuits, the stop/turn light circuit and the running light circuit. The Tow Ready harness # 118566 can deliver up to 4.2 amps of current to each stop/turn circuit and up to 7.5 amps for the running lights. The Curt harness has a maximum of up to 3 amps of current to each stop/turn circuit and up to 6 amps for the running lights.

Since both harnesses have the same installation I would go for the higher-output Tow Ready harness # 118566 because it will be less likely to be overloaded by your trailer's lights.

I have linked an installation video and article for you to help make your install go more easily. A great way to protect your electrical connections for long-term reliability is to apply dielectric grease to the connectors before plugging everything in. You can use # 11755.