Does the 12 Volt Power Wire Need to Be Ran on a 7-Way Trailer Connector

Question:

I notice in many of the videos that they do not use the 12v power supply wires. I have a 2013 Toyota Highlander with 4 pin connector. I want to install this on my highlander as my boat trailer uses a 7 pin plug. My question is what exactly is that 12v battery power supply wire used for and why dont they connect it to the battery in most of the videos? Also will I need to connect the 12v power supply wire in my Toyota Highlander

asked by: Elijah

Expert Reply:

The 12 volt wire on a 7-way trailer connector like the Adapter 4 Pole to 7 Pole and 4 Pole part # C57674 is more often than not used to charge a battery on the trailer such as the ones used in a breakaway system. If there are no 12 volt accessories on the trailer then there is no need to run the additional wire. It really doesn't have anything to do with the tow vehicle.

If your trailer has brakes then instead of the above adapter I recommend using the Universal Installation Kit part # ETBC7 which comes with the wires and circuit breakers needed for both the 12 volt power and brake output circuits which will be needed if your trailer has brakes.

expert reply by: Conner L