Do I Need a Custom Fit Wiring Harness for 2003 Ford Windstar Trailer Wiring

Question

Question:

What exactly will happen if I try to splice in a simple 4-wire trailer kit into my 03 Ford windstar as opposed to buying the custom kit?

asked by: Dan K

0

Expert Reply:

If you try to splice a simple 4-way connector to your 2003 Ford Windstar you will not get proper taillight function and will cause electrical problems with the vehicle if you hook up a trailer. At the very least you will blow fuses and you could cause a problem with the vehicles computerized electronics.

Your Windstar is equipped with a different system for taillights than most other vehicles and needs a Low Side Switching Converter for the taillights to function properly. The converter protects your vehicle from any shorts on the trailer and converts the vehicles three wire system down to a two wire system for the trailer.

expert reply by: Robert G

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Answer 1

Hopkins tail light converter #HM48895 is a universal fit item so you can use it on your 2003 Ford Windstar. There are other, custom fit options available though. Check the build-date sticker in the door jamb of your Windstar. If it was built before…

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Answer 2

Your 2003 Ford Windstar will require the Plug-N-Tow (R) Low-Side Switching Hardwire Kit #36345 since it was produced after October 2002. Ford switched to a negative power input on these vehicles. The Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness…

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Answer 3

The custom fit receiver hitch you are interested in, part #13085, will fit around and allow you to access the spare tire. If you'll be towing with your van, you'll need the following parts to complete your towing system: Trailer wiring…

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Answer 4

I can tell you how to measure to determine how much ground clearance you will have with the Curt hitch #13085 installed on your 2002 Ford Windstar. First, take a look at the installation instructions I have linked for you to see the installation…

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Answer 5

I have a simple solution to a complicated problem. You are using the wrong converter. Your Windstar uses what is called a low-side wiring system. This means that neutral side of the lighting circuit is turned on and off, instead of the positive or…

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Answer 6

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 7

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 8

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Answer 9

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 10

Lance does have a proprietary plug, but many customers see a standard 6-way or 7-way round and notice it doesn't fit their factory 7-way as well. I've attached an article to help if you have one of the 7-way or 6-way round connectors which we…

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Answer 11

You will have to go with a sliding hitch to allow the trailer to make tight turns. For a trailer 8 feet wide the only bed length that's going to allow 90 degree turns without a slider is a stationary hitch. That being said you have two options.…

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Answer 12

If you just need a 4-pin to 7-pin trailer wiring adapter, then you can use part #C57672. This will plug into the 4-pin trailer connector on your brother's vehicle and give him the 7-pin socket for the trailer. Keep in mind, this will only give…

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