How to Connect a 4-Way Vehicle Connection to 5-Way Trailer Connection
Updated 11/16/2021 | Published 11/15/2021
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Question:
I have the 4 needed wires wired and do not need the red wire as I will not be using a brake controller. So do I just not hook that wire to my toad and just use the 4 needed wires? Do I need to do anything else to have my turn lights and brake lights? How does the system know when to do a turn signal instead of a brake? Does my tow vehicle automatically separate those signals without me adding anything else. Thanks.
asked by: Ralph G
Helpful Expert Reply:
It sounds like you have a 4-way connection on your vehicle and a 5-way connection on your trailer. You can plug the 4-way into the 5-way and the lights on your trailer will work as intended. The additional connection point on a 5-way is for the reverse lockout. If you do not need this you can cover it/cap it off, it does not have to be used. Alternatively you could add a 5-way adapter like the Curt # C57187 if you need the reverse lockout function.
As far as the turn signal and brakes are concerned, your 4-way wiring harness will have a tail light converter. Since most trailers run on a two wire system, the converter box will converter box will combine the brake and turn signals to be compatible with your trailer wiring system.
I have attached some helpful articles on 4-way and 5-way wiring for your reference.
