7-Way Recommendation for Activating Trailer Brakes on a Trailer with a 5-Way
Question:
I have a utility trailer with tandem electric brakes and a 5 Pin Flat connector on the tounge of the trailer. The trailer is currently powered by a 4 Pin Flat connection with the 5th Pin of the trailer connection exposed no brakes. My tow vehicle has a 7 way blade female connector. I presume the unused blue wire on the trailer is for the electric brakes. Will the A75TB adapter power the electric brakes using the correct 5 wire connection? Thank You!
asked by: Kevin F
Expert Reply:
Typically, the 5th circuit of a 5-way is for a reverse light circuit. I have a solution for you, but you will not be able to use the Adapter 7 Pole to 5 Pole Flat # A75TB to activate your trailer brakes as it has an empty port where the brake output circuit would be on your tow vehicle connector.
I would recommend you confirm that the fifth circuit on your trailer is actually for trailer brakes. You can do this by tracing the wires back from the connector and see if they go to the brake assemblies.
If the fifth circuit on the 5-way does go to the trailer brakes I would recommend you cut off the 5-way and then install a trailer side 7-way like the 7-Way Round RV Style Trailer Connector # A7WCB in place of it. You will want to wire it up according to the picture that I attached.
Kevin F.
1/31/2013
Jameson, thanks so much for your answer. It was very helpfull and super fast. I received my first order from etrailer the other day and have been very impressed!! This Q
Products Referenced in This Question
7-Way Round RV Style Trailer Connector - Trailer Side
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- Plug Only
- 7 Round - Blade
- Optronics
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Daniel H.
2/17/2013
what if i do not have a purple wire.I hook up everything and everything works but the brakes.6 way to 7 way 2004 40 ft. Ameritrail flatbed going to 2010 Dodge truck.thanks