Should Red Wire of Curt Universal Wiring Kit be Grounded for Jeep JL with 3-Wire System

Updated 03/13/2020 | Published 03/11/2019

Question:

Just received my converter 59496 from e trailer today. Do I understand correctly that by grounding the converters red wire, I am taking a 3-wire system on my JL and converting it into a 2-wire trailer light system? Thank you in advance for your response. Note: I understand the internal circuit protection battery powered converter systems provide. What I cant understand is Jeep Wrangler designers not adding an empty slot in the fuse box and few feet of 12 GA wire run to the back of the vehicle. Minimal cost and a real time and money saver for someone who decides to add a hitch. I installed hitches on my YJ and JK Jeeps by tapping into their tail light circuits-no problems. Im disappointed with my new JL-first upgrade-big hassle.

asked by: David P

Expert Reply:

If your Jeep JL has a 3-wire system then you will actually attach the red wire from the Curt Upgraded Circuit Protected Powered Tail Light Converter w Hardwire Kit # C59496 to the brake light circuit. The only time you will ground the red wire is if your Jeep JL is a 2-wire system. You can tell the difference by checking to see if the same circuits are used for both your stop and turn functions. If they do then it's a 2-wire system but if they don't it's a 3-wire system.

This wiring kit is a universal fit which is why there are instructions for both types of wiring systems in the installation instructions.

I have attached clips from the instructions for you to reference as well as a review video for you to check out. I am not sure why Jeep doesn't have 12V wiring, or any trailer wiring, running to the rear of your vehicle, but you are correct that routing the power wire up to the battery is the best way to go.

expert reply by: Jon G