Using # 37185 Adapter to Provide 7-Way Trailer Connector on 2003 Ford Pickup

Updated 10/22/2012 | Published 10/20/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury

(1799)

$21.97

Question:

Can you connect a 7 pole trailer to a 4 pole vehicle end

asked by: Bobby S

Expert Reply:

You can certainly adapt a 7-way trailer connector on a trailer to a 4-pole on a vehicle by installing the # 37185 adapter you referenced.

Simply use the included mounting bracket to install the adapter onto the vehicle, and plug the 4-pole portion of the adapter into the 4-pole on the vehicle and attach the white ground wire to the frame or chassis. When the trailer is plugged into the adapter, all lighting connections will be active. If the trailer has electric brakes, or if you have a trailer mounted battery or accessories requiring 12-volt power, you will need to make a few more connections as shown in the FAQ article I have linked to.

If the trailer has electric brakes, you will need to install a brake controller in order to actuate them. I can highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. A brake controller wiring adapter, part # 3035-P would also be needed. The FAQ article I mentioned above will walk you through this process.

expert reply by: Mike L