Recommended Trailer Harness Wiring For 1996 Ford F-250 To Tow Fifth Wheel Trailer
Updated 04/27/2016 | Published 04/23/2016
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Question:
I am going to be wiring a 1996 Ford F250 for a recently purchased fifth wheel trailer. It has a four-prong flat harness now, but I am unsure if it is in operable condition. Id like to assume that it doesnt work and would like start afresh. Can you tell me what wiring Id need to connect to a 7-prong connection?
asked by: John M
Expert Reply:
There are a few scenarios here. If you have a factory-installed 4-way connector then that makes a difference down the road when installing a brake controller. There may be a brake controller port under the dash on your F-250 and an adapter can be used with a brake controller.
The first thing you want to do is find out if your 4-way connector is operational. If it is working, that may save you some money. You can use a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 for that. Have someone sit in the cab and run through the functions while you test the pins on the wiring harness.
If you decide to install a new harness I recommend part # 118316. This plugs into the vehicle wiring under the driver side behind the rear wheel on the frame rail. You would just unplug your existing 4-way harness and plug the new one in.
If you are replacing a factory 4-way you will then need part # 37185. This will plug into the 4-way connector and with additional wiring give you the 7-way at the back of your truck. This additional wire may be necessary to connect the 7-Way socket of part # 37185 to the vehicle's tow package wires which are along the rear frame rail.
If the 4-way was not a factory installed harness you will need the 4-way as described above and then you will need part # ETBC7. This installation kit will plug into the 4-way connector on your truck but it also includes circuit breakers, wiring connectors, screws, zip-ties, and a wire loom. This kit includes a circuit tester as well.
For a brake controller I recommend part # 90195. This is our most popular brake controller because it is easy to install and operate. If you have a factory 4-way or 7-way installed on your F-250 you can use a brake controller plug-in adaptor # 3050-P. One end plugs into the back of the brake controller and the other end simply plugs into the brake controller port located under the dash. You can check out the attached link to an installation video for a brake controller. At about the 2 minute mark the video shows where the port for a brake controller is located.
I have attached a drawing that shows how the wiring is run for a brake controller and a 7-way connector you can check out. I have also attached a couple helpful articles you can take a look at.
When working with electrical connectors I recommend using dielectric grease like part # 11755. This keeps dirt and moisture out of the electrical connections and helps prevent corrosion.
If you need a 7-way connector in the bed of your truck for your fifth wheel trailer I recommend part # PK11893-11932. This plugs right into the OEM wiring and gives you a 7-way connector in your truck bed with easier access for the trailer.
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