Installing 5 Way Connector for Reverse Trailer Brake Lockout on 2002 Escape w/Ground Side Switching

Question:

I purchased a new boat trailer with disk brakes. My vehicle has a 4 pin flat connector fatory installed tow package. I want to upgrade to a 5 pin. The problem is with connecting the blue wire to the back up circuit. On the 2002 Escape the + teminal on the backup light is always hot when the ignition is on. When Reverse is ed the - side is switched to ground to complete thecircuit and light the backup light. It seems like you need a relay to provide power to the blue wire when reverse is ed. What do I need to do to wire the ford escape for the brake control?

asked by: John W

Expert Reply:

Your vehicle has a ground side switching reverse light circuit. You can use the Hopkins Wiring Harness with 5-Pole Flat Trailer Connector - Vehicle End - 5' Long # HM37908, on your vehicle to install all of the connections from your original 4-Way connector and then wire the reverse light circuit.

For your ground side switching reverse light circuit you will need a relay. These relays are called ISO relays and are available at your local auto parts dealer. The relay will have 5 terminals. One terminal on the relay will require a constant 12 volt signal, a terminal will be grounded, a terminal will be wired to the trigger, which is the wire going to the escape reverse lights, and then the output wire will go to the 5th pole on the trailer connector. The fifth terminal on the relay will not be used.

The ISO relay will, when connected properly, provide power to the blue trailer brake lockout circuit at the trailer connector when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. Basically what happens is when the vehicle is shifted into reverse, the circuit is completed for the reverse light which allows the relay to close the circuit for the power from the battery, and supplies 12 volt power to the trailer brake lockout circuit.

I would recommend using the Modulite Installation Wiring Kit, item # 118151, to wire the power wire to the relay. The included inline fuse holder and fuse will protect your trailer and vehicle from any mishap that may occur.

If you need both the 5-way Vehicle side connector and the 5-Way Trailer side connector you can use the Hopkins Endurance 5-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Kit - Vehicle and Trailer Ends - Ergonomic Design, item # HM47890, on your vehicle and trailer.