Can a Vehicle with a 4-Way Tow a Trailer with a 7-Way

Updated 04/10/2018 | Published 04/07/2018

Question:

I have a small 22foot travel trailer that has trailer brakes and a 7 way plug. I have someone that is going to borrow it but they only have a 4 way plug on their vehicle. If i install a 7way-4way adapter between the tow vehicle and the trailer the lights will still work but the trailer will Not engage when the brakes are applied correct?

asked by: Jack

Helpful Expert Reply:

Correct, a 4 to 7-way adapter will allow your friend to tow the trailer. The lights will function therefore making it legal to drive but the brakes would not be able to be engaged without a brake controller. The best and most cost effective solution would be to use part # A10-7084VP on the vehicle therefore no alterations will need to be made to the trailer or vehicle.

Once you plug the male 4-way on the adapter into the female 4-way on the vehicle, there will be 4 wires remaining. The 3 blunt cut wires with the yellow butt connectors do not have to be ran but the white ground wire with the ring terminal will need to be secured to a bare metal surface in order for the lights to work.

expert reply by: Conner L