Installing Hopkins Endurance Multi-Tow Connector on 1999 and 2001 Ford Explorer

Question:

I am looking at the Item # HM48470 I like the different plug in options as I have the 4 and 5 on two trailers, and the 7 on the big trailer, and the dump trailer. My father and brothers trailers all use the 7 blade now. In the future I am planning on changing all of mine to match the 7 blade plug/receptacle. My tow vehicles are presently a 1999 Ford Explorer and a 2001 Ford Explorer Sport trac, both in 4x4. I was looking for the harnesses that would connect the new recep. to the vehicle wiring. I found a few for 4 pin, none for 5, and nothing for the 7 blade. ??? How do I work this? Thanks

asked by: David C

Expert Reply:

The Hopkins Endurance Multi-Tow 7-, 5- and 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector # HM48470 referenced in your question can be installed on both your 2001 and 1999 Ford Explorer, however it will need to be hardwired in according to the wiring diagram in the instruction link that I have attached. This connector is typically used for vehicles that already have 7-Way wiring ran, as this is simply a socket. If this is all that you need, this will work perfectly.

If your vehicles do not already have the wiring ran, you will first need to install a couple of items.

We will start with your 1999 Ford Explorer. If it already has a factory 4-Way connector installed, you will just need to install the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7. This kit will include everything required to install all of the 7-Way wiring needed for your trailers. The kit does include a built-in 4- and 7-Way connector. If you still wish to use the Hopkins # HM48470, you will just need to cut this off so you can hardwire in the Hopkins unit.

If the 1999 Explorer does not have the factory 4-Way connector, you will just need to install a 4-Way like the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness # 118345 along with the # ETBC7 Kit mentioned above.

Then for your 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, you will need to install the Tekonsha 4-Pole Hardwire Kit # 18252 (if it does not already have a 4-Way connector). This is a hardwire kit that includes a circuit tester to aid with installation. Once installed, you will again need to install the # ETBC7 to complete the 7-Way wiring.

I have attached all of the installation instructions for these kits along with a couple of articles that you might find helpful.