What is Needed to Tow a M105A2 Military Trailer with a 2013 Dodge Durango

Question:

Hi, Have a M105A2 military trailer, what hardware and electrical adapter do I need so I can tow with a 2013 Durango with the standard 7 blade connector and 2 inch hitch? And do I have to worry about the brake connector?

asked by: Hector R

Helpful Expert Reply:

To convert your M105A2 military trailer to a 7-blade, I would recommend using the Epicord 7-Way with Junction Box # 277-000141. This makes the conversion simple and you don't have to worry about wiring the connector itself. You'll also need some ring terminals like # 44-5310A and some loom clamps like # A0500.

The wires in the junction box are color coded as indicated below. Military wiring is typically not color-coded, so you may need to use a circuit tester like # PTW2992 and a 12V power source, such as a vehicle battery, to check the functions of your trailer wires. From your photo I can see that you have a NATO 12-pin connector. I've attached a diagram may be helpful in identifying the functions. Your existing plug will have additional wires for blackout lights and other functions that will not be necessary for civilian use. Those wires can be taped up out of the way since they will not be used.

Epicord Wiring:
White (ground): 10 gauge
Black (12V power): 10 gauge
Yellow (reverse/auxiliary): 14 gauge
Red (left turn and stop): 14 gauge
Green (tail and running lights): 14 gauge
Brown (right turn and stop): 14 gauge
Blue (brake): 12 gauge

Connecting to the brakes will depend on the trailer. If you have the air over hydraulic brakes that come standard, you will want to convert to electric over hydraulic or electric brakes. The simplest and least costly conversion would be electric drum brakes. I've provided a link to an article with more information on this conversion. If you could provide me with your axle capacity, wheel size, bolt pattern and wheel stud size, I can recommend an electric drum brake system for you.

Electric and electric over hydraulic brakes require the tow vehicle to have a brake controller like # 90195. If your Durango has the factory installed 7-way, you would just need the controller and adapter # TK93VR. If your Durango does not have a factory 7-blade connector then you would need a 4-pole connector like # 118552 and the Brake Controller Installation Kit # ETBC7.

One other thing to keep in mind is that some military trailers are 24V and some are 12V. If your trailer is 24V, you will need to change either the bulbs or the lights from 24V to 12V to be compatible with civilian trailer wiring.

Finally, let's discuss how you are going to hook up to the 2" receiver on your 2013 Dodge Durango. The simplest option would be to purchase a Trailer Hitch Pintle Hook Mount like # 63056 and a Bolt-On Pintle Hook like # C48205. This gives you a few inches to raise and lower the hook to get a good fit. If you do not need any rise or drop, you could go with a simple hitch-mounted pintle hook like # TR63043.

Good luck with your conversion and enjoy your trailer. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need more detailed information on any of these topics.