How to Wire Reverse Lights on a Trailer with a 4-Way Trailer Connector
Updated 11/20/2024 | Published 04/17/2013
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Question:
I bought 2 of the 4-1/2 inch trailer lights and they had a single wire setup. I was wondering how I make them work with a 4 pin connector as reverse lights.
asked by: Colin N
Expert Reply:
We do have a solution for you, however, you will not be able to power reverse lights on a trailer with a 4-pin trailer connector. The reverse lights on a trailer must receive power from the reverse lights on the tow vehicle.
To do this, you will want to install a 5-pin connector on the trailer and on the tow vehicle. There are many options, but I recommend installing the Hopkins Endurance 5-way Flat Wiring Kit, # HM47890, for a uniform look. You can simply cut off the 4 pin connectors on your tow vehicle and trailer and splice in these 5-way connectors. You will need a total of 10 butt connectors, # 05732-2, to splice the wires together.
Once you have the stop, turn and tail light functions wired into these connectors, you will need an additional length of wire to reach the reverse lights from the 5-way connector on your trailer. I recommend purchasing an appropriate length of 12 gauge wire, # 12-1-1.
The last step is to connect a wire from the vehicle side 5-way connector to the reverse light circuit on your tow vehicle. For this, you can use the same 12 gauge wire that I previously mentioned. To find the reverse light circuit, you will want to use a circuit tester like part # PTW2979 to probe the wires at one of your tail light assemblies. Once you find the wire that is hot when the reverse lights are on, you can splice in the 12 gauge wire using a quick splice like part # SWC501915-1.
I have attached an video of our installers installing a 5-way trailer connector on a vehicle for you to check out. The vehicle in the video is likely different from your vehicle, but the video should give you an idea on how to locate the reverse light circuit to power reverse lights on your trailer.
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on Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
James W.
11/4/2024
I can understand having to run another wire for the reverse light. But I have a built in 4 pin connector on my bumper . It’s a 2015 Silverado 1500. Will a 5 pin connector fit where my 4 pin connector is?