Installing Trailer Connector on RV for Towing Trailer
Question:
What wire is installed on RV to tow trailer
asked by: Gerald
Expert Reply:
I'm assuming you're wanting to know how to wire your RV to tow a trailer, is that correct?
This will depend on which trailer connector your trailer uses. If the trailer uses a simple 4-pole connector like part # 18004, you would install a 4-pole on the RV.
If your RV uses a separate bulb behind an amber colored lens for the turn signals, you'll need to use a 4-pole with a converter, like part # C59236. If your RV uses the same bulb for brake lights and turn signals, with a red lens you'd just use the connector without a converter, part # 18252.
In either case, you'd wire the connector directly into the existing taillight circuits.
If the trailer uses a 7-way connector (see the linked article), and you're just needing lights you'd first install the 4-pole as mentioned above. You'd then use an adapter like part # 37185 which would plug into the 4-pole and provide you lighting circuits for the trailer. You'd ground the white wire, and if your trailer doesn't have brakes, you'd be done at that point.
If your trailer has brakes and you'd want them to actuate, you'll need to install a brake controller using our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7, which includes the adapter mentioned above.
For a brake controller, I'd recommend the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160. The Primus is a proportional brake controller, which means the trailer brakes would apply at the same rate as those of the RV for safe, predictable braking. The # ETBC7 kit contains everything needed to install a brake controller, but due to the extended length of an RV versus that of a car, truck or SUV, you'll need some extra wire, it's sold by the foot as part # 10-2-1.
I'll link you to some FAQ articles and install videos that I hope you'll find helpful.
Products Referenced in This Question
Deka Jacketed 2 Wire, 10 Gauge, Brake Wire - per Foot
- Wiring
- Wire
- Jacketed Wire
- 2 Wire
- 10 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 0 - 5 Feet Long
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- Draw-Tite
more information >
4-Way Flat Trailer Connector w/ 72" Harness, Circuit Tester and Wire Taps
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- 6 Feet Long
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole
- Trailer Wiring
- Wiring Adapters
- Multi-Function Adapter
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- 4 Flat
- 7 Round - Blade
- Hopkins
more information >
Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Universal Fit
- 4 Flat
- CURT
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 3 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 3 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 90 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Deka Wire - Jacketed 4-Wire - 16/4 Gauge - per Foot
- Wiring
- Wire
- Jacketed Wire
- 4 Wire
- 16 Gauge
- Deka
more information >
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