Does the Ground Wire Need to be Attached to Vehicle on a 4 to 7-Way Trailer Connector Adapter

Question:

I previously purchased and installed the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector on my 2006 Honda Odyssey, and now have a pop up camper with a 7 pole round plug. If using the Tow Ready 30717 adapter, do I have to separately connect the ground wire of the adapter directly to the vehicle ground, or can I use the white ground lead from the 4 pole adapter end that connects to the vehicle 4 pole that is already grounded per its installation?

asked by: Tony I

Expert Reply:

The separate white ground wire on the Tow Ready adapter, # 30717, will need to be attached to the vehicle frame to a bare metal surface in order for it to function properly. If there is an existing ground point nearby, you can use that too.

If the trailer requires a 7-Way trailer connector, installing the adapter by itself will only allow the lighting functions on the trailer to work. If the trailer has electric brakes or needs 12 volt power, there are additional connections that will need to be made.

For this we recommend the # ETBC7 kit. This kit comes with an adapter and all of the wiring and accessories you will need. You would then need a brake controller to operate the trailer brakes. I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885 because it is easy to set up and easy to use.

I have included links to some installation details and videos that will help you.

expert reply by: Michael H