What Can 6-Way Round Trailer Connectors be Wired Two Different Ways

Updated 08/24/2011 | Published 08/22/2011

Question:

Why are there two different ways to wire a six pin trailer connector? Switching the power and brake. Which is correct?

asked by: Andrew

Expert Reply:

Basically, there is no set way to wire a trailer connector. Different manufacturers can set it up any way they want to. However, while there is no hard and fast rule on how connectors should be wired, most stick with the most common methods so that their parts will be compatible with everyone else.

The 6-Way round pole connector can still be wired one of two ways; with the center pole as the 12 volt hot lead, or as the brake. Having the center pole as the 12 volt hot lead is probably most common. But, like it says in the description for the Hopkins Adapter, # 47565, you can easily switch the two if the trailer is set up differently.

expert reply by: Michael H