Hardwiring a Trailer Connector on a 1997 Dodge Ram to Power Trailer Lights and Brakes
Question:
Cant figure out how to get a 4 flat hook up to my Dodge Ram 1997 1500 just from a hardwired into the wires how do I get the brakes to work
asked by: James L
Expert Reply:
To hardwire a 4-way you'll need to use a circuit tester, like part # PTW2993, to find the correct wires on your truck by function. One the 4-way you have picture the color code is white for ground, green for right turn and right brake lights, yellow for left turn and left brake lights, and brown for running lights. The brake lights and turn signals are combined.
We do carry a plug and play wiring harness for your 1997 Dodge Ram. Part # 118329 plugs into connectors at the rear of the truck along the inside of the frame rail on both sides.
If you're trying to power the trailer's brakes, then you'll need a 7-way trailer connector. For this use your # ETBC7 kit once you have the 4-way installed. This kit converts the 4-way to a 7-way and includes everything else needed to install a brake controller. If you need a brake controller as well, I recommend the Prodigy P3 # 90195 because of how reliable and easy to use it is.
I've attached link on wiring, as well as some videos you might find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Hook Probe Circuit Tester
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Curt 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Custom Wiring Harness w/ 7-Pole Connector - 7' Long
- Q&A: How to Wire up a 7-Way Connector on a 1997 Dodge Ram 3/4 ton Cummins
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Video: Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 1999 Dodge Ram Pickup
- Shop: Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole
- Shop: No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket - Short
- Shop: 3-Wire Y-Adapter for Peterson Trailer Tail Lights - 3-Prong PL-3 Plug - 12" Long
- Q&A: Connecting Aftermarket Brake Controller to Curt 5th Wheel Harness on 1997 Dodge Ram 3500
- Article: Electric Brake Controller Installation on Dodge Ram Trucks to 2012
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Shop: Towing Mirrors
- Article: Brake Controller Installation on a Ford Full-Size Van
- Q&A: Dust Cover/Cap Solution for Harbor Freight Trailer
- Video: Tekonsha Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring - Trailer Hitch Wiring - 118329 Review
- Video: Trailer Wiring Harness Adapter Installation - 1995 Dodge Ram
- Video: Trailer Wiring Harness Installation - 2001 Dodge Ram
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Q&A: Wiring Diagram for a 1997 Peterbilt Semi Tractor with 7-Pin Round Connector
- Q&A: Standard Color Code for Wiring Simple 4 Wire Trailer Lighting
- Q&A: How to Wire in a New 7-Way to a 1997 Dodge Ram 2500
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Shop: Air Filter
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Video: Choosing the Right Trailer Wiring