Replacement For Factory 7-Way Trailer Connector on 2003 Ford F-250

Updated 04/22/2021 | Published 04/21/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Hopkins Endurance 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness with 7-Pole Plug

(101)

$79.01

Pollak Replacement 7-Pole, RV-Style Trailer Connector Socket - Vehicle End

(736)

$14.85

Hook Probe Circuit Tester

(62)

$13.94

Question:

I have a 2003 f250 that has both a 4 way and a 7 way with factory connection. I see 2 options for fixing this. Item # 118243 and Item # 118242. currently the 2 wires that would be used for 118242 which looks like tail lights are connected from both sides to themselves. then the non working 7 and 4 way are plugged into the harness that 118243 uses. im assuming this is the factory. if i buy just 118243 will the 7 way work for all trailer towing functions?

asked by: Garett

Expert Reply:

Although the # 118243 shares the same rectangular plug located on the driver's side frame rail as later models, Tow Ready only confirms it as a fit for 1999-2001 Super Duty trucks while the # 118242 fits the 1997-2003 F150 and the 2004 F150 Heritage Series.

I don't offer a confirmed fit for a 2003 F-250 that would provide a 7-way trailer connector that would plug into the existing rectangular connector. If possible, I'd recommend unplugging the 7-way connector from the harness that plugs directly into the rear of it. Use a circuit tester like # PTW2993 on the socket that plugs in to see if you're getting signal into the connector from the factory harness as each lighting function is activated. If you are, you can simply replace the 7-way itself using # PK11893.

If not, I have a solution. I'd use the # 40167 although it's intended to be installed into the truck bed for a 5th wheel, it does have the correct rectangular connector and is a confirmed fit for 2002-2004 Ford Super Duty trucks. You'd unplug the factory harness from the connector on the frame rail, plug the # 40167 into that connector, cover the other leg of the # 40167 with electrical tape to keep out moisture and zip tie up the additional wire length. It's not the slickest of solutions, but it would be the quickest that would allow you to install a 7-way without having to cut or splice any wiring.