Replacing Trailer End 4-Pole Connector That Has 8 Wires
Updated 08/19/2025 | Published 04/14/2022
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
What part do I need for a 4 way connector replacement on the trailer end. I snipped off the old connector and found that it doesn’t have 4 wires, but it has 8. 3 white, 3 brown, 1 yellow, 1 green. I did buy a trailer end connector that you place the wires end and snap the cover to replace, but I don’t think all those wires are going to fit in there. Again, is there a specific part that I need for this type of wire configuration? Thanks for any advice.
asked by: Carlos
Helpful Expert Reply:
For starters, a quick-fix type connector shown in your photo is typically a good choice for an emergency repair, but I wouldn't use it as a permanent fix.
It looks like your trailer wiring has 3 separate grounds and 3 separate running lamp circuits for some reason. This is kind of a strange setup, but if everything worked fine beforehand, there really wouldn't be any need to change that at this point. Your suspicion is correct, I don't believe all those wires will fit in there either.
For a long lasting, bulletproof installation that you won't need to mess with ever again (unless you pull off after forgetting to plug the trailer in and destroy the trailer connector), I'd recommend using a junction box like # 3375601101 as a good place to make all those connections. The wiring connections will be neatly done and protected from moisture and dirt/grime. To replace the actual 4-pole, I'd recommend a heavier duty option like the Wesbar # W787264 for a 4 foot, # W787268 for an 8 foot or # W787270 for a 10 foot trailer end pigtail. you'll also need ring terminals like part # DW05702-1 to make the connections.
This setup will make for a much cleaner and reliable installation. Should the trailer end pigtail become damaged in the future, it'll only take a couple of minutes to replace the pigtail, without needing to remove yards of electrical tape.
(click to enlarge)
Brian
8/2/2024
So you'd connect all 4 whites and 4 brown wires on one terminal in the junction box?
Mike L.
8/3/2024
James
8/19/2025
So my trailers has 8 wires , 3 white , 3 brown , green and yellow , how would the 7 junction box work for 8 wires. When I pigtailed in an emergency, the running lights piped the fuse while all the others worked properly. Not sure on best way to fix and why pigtails although not best made running lights blow fuse
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Hopkins 7-Way RV Style Connector with Molded Cable - Trailer End - 8' Long - RV Standard
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 7 Blade
- Plug and Lead
- Hopkins
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring Junction Box - 7 Color Coded Terminals - ABS
- Search Results: trailer breakaway kit
- Shop: Optronics Smoke Lens ID Light Bar - Turn, Brake, Tail, and Backup Light - Red/White - 15"
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Shop: Deutsche Hydrapro Trailer Breakaway Kit w/ Charger, LED Tester, and 10 Ah Battery - Top Load
- Search Results: trailer brake controller
- Search Results: wiring box
- Search Results: electrical junction box
- Search Results: gooseneck hitch
- Search Results: brake actuator
- Q&A: How to Replace a 4-Way Trailer Connector with 8 Wires
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Video: Review of CURT Trailer Wiring - Trailer End Cold Weather 7 Way RV Style Connector - C23RJ
- Shop: Curt Cold Weather 7-Way RV Style Connector - Trailer End - 10' Long - RV Standard
- Shop: 14 Gauge, 4 Conductor Jacketed Wire - Per Foot
- Shop: etrailer Trailer Wiring Junction Box - 7 Terminal
- Video: Complete Breakdown of the Trailer Wiring Junction Box
- Shop: Peterson Great White LED Mini Utility Light - 1 Diode - Black Housing - Clear Lens
- Q&A: How Do The Breakaway Switch And Electric Brakes Connect To A Trailer's 7 Way
- Video: What to Know About the Trailer Wiring Junction Box
- Article: Trailer Lighting Requirements
- Video: Detailed Breakdown of the Pollak 7-Circuit-Breaker Junction Box
- Article: Breakaway Kit Installation for Single and Dual Brake Axle Trailers
- Video: Feature Review LED Trailer Tail Light
- Video: Feature Breakdown: Thinline LED Trailer Clearance or Side Marker Light w/ Bracket
- Q&A: Parts List to Re-Wire a Trailer w/ Electric Brakes
- Video: A Closer Look at the LED Combination Trailer Tail Lights
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: Water Pressure Regulator With a Replaceable Pressure Gauge
on Trailer Wiring
Luis T.
7/15/2024
I have the same issue . How did you resolve this problem.