How to Make European 13 Pin to 4-Way

Updated 03/22/2021 | Published 03/19/2021

Question:

I have a 1991 Mercedes 300GE G-Wagen. It has a 13-pin trailer connector. I’m looking for an adapter to bring it down to US 4-pin. Do you have an adapter? Thanks.

asked by: Michael L

Expert Reply:

Unfortunately we do not have an adapter to go from a European 13-way trailer connector to a U.S. style 4-way trailer connector. European trailers typically have separate brake light and turn signal circuits, but U.S. trailers use a combined wiring system that use one wire for the turn signals and brake lights.

You could make an adapter using a universal 4-way flat tail light converter like part # HM48925v, but you would need to find a European trailer side 13-way connector that can be rewired. Simply connect the blunt cut wires from the Converter # HM48925 to the corresponding pins on the 13-way connector. The functions of the wires from the Tow Ready converter are listed below.

Red Wire - Brake Lights
Yellow Wire - Left Turn Signal
Green Wire - Right Turn Signal
Brown Wire - Tail Lights/Running Lights
White Wire - Ground

expert reply by: Jameson C