Connecting Vehicle Side 4-Way to 5-Way on 2003 Boatmate Trailer
Question:
I recently bought a boat with a 2003 Boatmate Tandem axel trailer - model/serial #4FBBC202931009789. I have a 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser with a factory 4-point flat connection i.e., 3 female and one male. The trailer has a 5-point flat connection i.e., 4 male and one female. It is my understanding that the 5th connection on the trailer is for reverse. The trailer has electric brakes. The brakes lock up if the reverse wire is not connected. I know this because we have towed it with my sons Durango and found this braking issue to be the case. What would you recommend as the best way to connect the FJ to the trailer. Thanks in advance for your advice!
asked by: Brad K
Helpful Expert Reply:
Based on your description it sounds like your 2003 Boatmate trailer has hydraulic drum brakes with an electric lockout on the surge brake actuator. If you had electric brakes the trailer connector would likely be a 7-way, and a 5-way flat would not be able to power the brakes.
You are correct though, the 5th function is for the reverse light circuit. When you put your vehicle in reverse this sends power to the lockout so the surge brakes do not activate and lock up in reverse.
In order to connect to your 5-way on the trailer you need the Curt Trailer Connector Adapter # C57187. This will tap into the reverse light circuit on your vehicle so the electric lockout functions correctly.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Trailer Connector Adapter - 4-Way Flat to 5-Way Flat - Vehicle End
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Single-Function Adapter
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- 5 Flat
- CURT
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