Re-wiring a European Trailer to be Compatible with a 4-Way Flat Connector on a 2008 Ford Explorer

Question:

What would be the best harness for me to splice into to adapt my 4 hole plug to a german 7 hole plug. I was looking at the 18004 but not sure if it will have everything I need for the german wiring system?

asked by: Belford

Expert Reply:

On a European 7-Way trailer connector, the connector is pinned out differently than those used in the United States. They also use more wires to cover the same functions as a U.S. wiring configuration. So it would be much more beneficial to wire the trailer to work with a U.S. configuration rather than to convert and adapt the existing trailer wiring.

A 4-Way trailer connector uses brake light and turn signals on 1 wire for each side, 1 wire for running lights, and 1 wire for ground. What you will need to do is remove the wiring that is currently on the trailer and replace it with a 4-Way Trailer Wiring Harness.

You will also need to replace the tail lights since the European trailer lights are designed to work with separate wires for each function. We have several kits that include lights, wiring, and some have marker lights as well. I have included a link to the available tail light kit options for you to view.

expert reply by: Michael H