How to Wire a 7-Way Trailer Connector on a 1999 Chevrolet S-10 Pickup

Question:

I have a new boat and the trailer plug is a round plug like the 7 way, but it is only a 5 wire. The 5th wire is for backup lights so that the surge brakes on the trailer will release when backing up. But my other boat and utility trailers are the standard 4 wire flat. What connector like the Hopkins and wiring harness do I need to get this done? Will the HM40975-11998 work? Thanks so much!

asked by: Joe

Helpful Expert Reply:

In order to install a 7-way trailer connector on your 1999 Chevrolet S-10 Pickup you will want to use the Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole part # 37185. This adapter will plug into the 4-way trailer connector you have on your vehicle and will give you both 4 and 7-way trailer connection points. Since you boat trailer only uses 5 of the 7 wires on the trailer connector, the only 2 wires you will need to attach on the 7-way is the ground and reverse light circuit. In order find the reverse light circuit you will want to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 in addition to a quick splice connector like part # SWC501746-1. The rest of the wires can be taped together and tucked away.

I have also attached a sample install video for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L