Do I Need A Converter To Install a 7-way Connector on My 2008 Chrysler Town and Country Van

Expert Reply:

The Modulite converter is a circuit protection module to protect the vehicles sensitive wiring and electronics from possible problems related to short circuits or other problems related to towing a trailer. This style of wiring harness uses the power from the battery to power the trailers lights and relieve the strain on the vehicles taillight system. If your trailer has extra lighting like more running lights or clearance marker lights the amperage draw could be to high for the unprotected harness and cause a problem. If you just have the normal taillights and one set of side marker lights your factory harness should be fine but you will not have the added protection of the Modulite.

For wiring the 7-way connector to your van you will be able to use either 4-pole wiring harness mentioned. With the 4-pole connector installed properly you can then use the Adapter 4 Pole to 7 Pole and 4 Pole, item # 37185, to install a 7-way on your van. Once the 4-pole connector is connected you will then need to run a separate 10 gauge wire, for the trailer power, from the black wire on the connector to the battery via a circuit breaker, item # 9506P. Then you will need to connect the white ground wire to a secure clean ground point on the vehicle. Any other wires that are not needed can be zip tied up out of the way for future use.

You can also use the # ETBC7 wiring kit that contains everything needed to install the 7-way connector including all the wire, circuit breakers and ring terminals. With this kit you will also have the option of wiring for electric brakes in the future if you upgrade to a trailer with brakes.

expert reply by: Bob G