Adapter to Tow a Trailer with a 7-Way Connector Using a Vehicle with a 4-Way Connector

Question:

I borrowed a trailer and need an adaptor to connect the wiring. Trailer has a round 6 way female plug. My vehicle has a flat four way 3 female + 1 male. What adaptor do I need?

asked by: Dave P

Expert Reply:

Your picture actually shows a traditional 7-way trailer connector. The center pin is also counted. So what you need is a 4-way to 7-way adapter like part # 37185.

The adapter has extra wires that you don't have to connect on your vehicle but then you won't have the 12 volt power, electric brakes, or reverse light function. The brakes could be the most important if the trailer has electric brakes. If you need the connector to be fully functioning then you must wire in the extra wires. In this case it's better to user our kit, # ETBC7 to convert your 4-way to a 7-way. But this is a permanent install so I'm not sure if that's what you're looking to do since this is a borrowed trailer.

I've linked a video on the # ETBC7 kit for you to see if you go that route. If you tell me the year, make, and model of your vehicle we may have a video that's more specific to your install.

To power a trailer's electric brakes you also need an electric brake controller installed on your vehicle. If you need on I recommend the Tekonsha Primus IQ, part # TK90160, for a good quality yet economical controller.