Recommended Wiring For 5-Way Trailer Connector On Trailer And 4-Way On Truck

Question:

I have a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 with a 4 pin flat hook-up. I am buying a travel trailer with a 5 pin round hook up. What do I need to convert it. Thanks

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

To adapt your vehicle for your trailer, you will need the Tow Ready 4 Pole to 5 Pole Trailer Wiring Adapter # 20036. Depending on the trailer wiring, you will either need to connect the blue wire to your vehicle reverse light signal or to the brake controller wiring. It is easy to determine what function is used on your trailer. If you trailer lights have a reverse light and your axle hubs don't have drums then it is obvious the 5th wire is for reverse lighting. If you have a trailer with a brake actuating coupler that has a wire running to it, then you will need to connect to the reverse lighting wire as well because this is and electric reverse lockout for your coupler so you can back up without activating the brakes.

It is rare, but it is possible to have standard drum hubs on your trailer and to use that 5th wire for a brake controller output wire. If this is the case you will need to connect it to a brake controller and use kit # 5506 to get your brake controller signal.

expert reply by: Jason S