Recommended 6-pin Connector And Brake Controller For Motorcycle Towing Trailer With Electric Brakes

Updated 05/08/2015 | Published 05/07/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(65)

$12.94

Pollak 6-Pole, Round Pin, Trailer Wiring Socket - Vehicle End

(163)

$11.20

Question:

I have a 6 pin round plug to put on my motorcycle so I can pull an Aspen Camper with electric brakes. To wire the plug I am pretty sure about the lights but my question is should I run a hot wire to the center pin or is the blue wire from the brake controller the only wire connected to the center pin?I know this may be a little different than a car, but the trailer company said they will be wiring the trailer with a 6 pin round, and since the trailer is going to have electric brakes I am going to have to remove my 4 pin flat that I use for my cargo trailer that doesnt have brakes.THANKS FOR ANY INFO YOU CAN SUPPLY ME

asked by: David S

Expert Reply:

You will want to find out from the trailer company what the functions of the wires on the trailer connector will be so you can wire your motorcycle connector. Many times the center pin is the one used for the brake controller circuit.

I recommend the Pollak 6-Pole, Round Pin Socket, part # PK11609. You will need to cut the 4-way connector off right behind the plug and wire the # PK11609 to match the trailer connector. You will want to run the pin that matches the brake circuit on the trailer to your brake controller. You will have an additional pin that is typically used for an auxiliary 12V circuit but may not be needed for your trailer.

When selecting a brake controller I recommend a time-delay controller like the Tekonsha PowerTrac, part # 39523. A time-delay brake controller is recommended because of the movement of the motorcycle when executing turns. Proportional controllers require the controller to be installed in a level plane.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L