Recommended Trailer Wiring Harness for 2018 Ford Explorer

Updated 06/02/2019 | Published 06/01/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(815)

$186.35

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector

(149)

$64.98

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(494)

$44.82

Mounting Bracket 4-Pole Flat

(6123)

$9.85

Curt No-Drill Bracket for 6-Way or 7-Way Round Trailer Connector Mounting Bracket - Long

(301)

$30.93

Hopkins Endurance Multi-Tow 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat Trailer Connector - Vehicle End

(64)

$27.62

Mounting Bracket and Installation Hardware - Pollak 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector - Vehicle End

(1184)

$8.20

Question:

Which wiring harness do I need for this hitch for my 2018 explorer and will I need anything else?

asked by: Candace

Expert Reply:

If you just need a simple 4-way trailer connector on your 2018 Ford Explorer then I recommend the Tekonsha, part # 118540. It plugs in to connectors under the rear of your Explorer on the passenger's side. On the other hand if you need a 7-way connector I recommend part # 118272. It plugs into the same location. If you want the best of both worlds you can get the 7-way harness, part # 118272 that I mentioned, and not use the connector it comes with but instead use part # HM40950. This way you'll have both a 4-way and a 7-way.

The 4-way connector can be hooked to the hitch's safety chain loops or just left hanging but that doesn't work well for a 7-way. To mount the 7-way properly you need a bracket like part # PK12711U. Additionally, it's a lot easier to mount the bracket using our no-drill bracket part # C57202. It uses a hose clamp around the hitch's crosstube so you have a place to install the 7-way's mounting bracket without drilling. It's less essential but we do have a mounting bracket for a 4-way if you wanted to use it. It's part # 18144 and also works with the no-drill bracket.

Along with the hitch and wiring you also need a ball mount. I've linked our selection that fits the 2 inch hitch you selected. I've also linked an article to help you determine the rise or drop you need in a ball mount to tow your trailer level.

I've also linked an installation video of the Draw-Tite hitch, part # 76034, for you.