Installation of a Trailer Wiring Harness on a 1997 Ford Explorer Without Factory Tow Package

Published 11/10/2009

Question:

i found no pre-wired plug for trailer lights on my 97 explorer i need trailer lights what do i do?

asked by: jesse

Expert Reply:

First, you need to find out If your Ford Explorer is equipped with a tow-package port (90 percent are). If so use, item # 118241, which is much simpler to hook up. The plug is usually located in the rear of the vehicle on the driver side. However, the plug can also be found on the passenger side and sometimes even on both sides. The small grey plug is usually covered with a red nipple, but the colors and styles of caps do vary.

If your Explorer is not equipped with the factory tow package then you will need to use the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector, item # 118345, to install a 4-Way trailer connector at the rear of the vehicle. The connections will be made behind the vehicle taillights, and inline with the vehicle taillight connectors. You will also need to run one wire to the positive battery post via an included inline fuse.

expert reply by: Robert G