Installing 6 Way Trailer Connector for Dump Trailer

Updated 08/06/2019 | Published 08/04/2019

Products Featured in This Question

10 Gauge Wire - Blue Primary - Per Foot

(104)

$1.89

6-Way Molded Connector with Cable - Trailer End

(24)

$48.85

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(60)

$12.27

Question:

I am trying to wire a dump trailer with electric brakes and a 6 pin round plug. One wire for the brakes is ground, but should the other wire be connected to the center accessory pin #6 or to the #5 pin 10 oclock, opposite ground?

asked by: Brijn

Expert Reply:

You're right when referring to the #5 pin at the 10 o'clock opposite the ground wire when looking at the back of the trailer side connector. This should be the pin that corresponds to the brake controller output, but this will also depend on the wiring of your trailer. If you don't already have the connectors, I recommend the Bargman 6 Way Connector # 50-61-108 or vehicle side 6 Way Connector # 50-86-007. If you need any 10-gauge wire # 10-1-1, it is available by the foot.

Traditionally the center accessory pin is going to be the 12v power wire for your trailer battery or other 12v accessories. The bottom 2 pins are going to operate the blinkers and brake lights, the 12 o'clock pin operates any running lights, and the remaining top 2 pins correspond to the brake controller output (1 o'clock when looking at the front of the trailer side connector) and the ground (10 o'clock when looking at the front side of the trailer side connector). You're going to want to focus on that brake controller output wire at the 1 o'clock position. I have attached a diagram that shows you exactly what positions I'm referencing but keep in mind that since trailer wiring is not universal, the colors and placement may not match your existing wiring setup. You'll want to test your vehicle 6-way connector with a circuit tester similar to # PTW2993 to make sure it matches the pin output.

expert reply by: Erik B