Trailer Connector Adapter to Power Reverse Lock Out on Trailer with Hydraulic Surge Brakes

Updated 06/27/2017 | Published 06/26/2017

Question:

I own a 2015 F-350 Ford and an EZ Loader Boat Trailer with Hydraulic Surge Brakes.... What do I need to do to keep my trailer brakes from engaging when backing up? I can reverse the 5 way trailer pin and the brakes will release but I would prefer not to....... When backing the trailer with my 2010 GMC, I do not have this problem.... Is this a Ford issue or can I change adapters and fix the problem????

asked by: John M

Expert Reply:

It sounds like you have a 4-way trailer connector on your 2015 Ford F-350 and a 5-way connector on the 2010 GMC. The fifth pin on the 5-way connects to the truck's reverse light circuit and tells the trailer's reverse lock out to prevent the brakes from locking up.

If the Ford only has a 4-way connector it's missing this feature. You can use an adapter like the Hopkins # 47515 on the Ford and connect the extra wire to its reverse light circuit to power the fifth pin.

If the Ford has a 5-way connector on it then you'll need to test it to make sure all the functions are working. If the reverse light function is not working then it could be a short in the wiring or a bad fuse.

expert reply by: Charles S