Parts Needed to Add 4-Way and 5-Way to 2023 Ford Explorer XLT
Updated 01/27/2026 | Published 08/25/2024 >
Products Featured in This Question
Question:
I have a 2023 Ford Explorer XLT that does not have OEM trailer wiring. I have trailers that have the 4 flat plug but now I also need a 5 flat plug for a boat trailer that has surge brakes and needs a 5th wire from the reverse lights. What do I need to connect to both 4 and 5 flat trailer plugs?
asked by: Fred W
Expert Reply:
Hello Fred; to add a 4-way to your 2023 Explorer XLT you need the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness # C56093. This plugs into the connection points in your rear cargo area. You will also need the Curt Trailer Connector Adapter # C57187 which will add the 5-way connection. You can plug both the 4-way and 5-way from your trailers into the 5-way on the adapter.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- Powered Converter
- No Tow Package
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Hidden
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Search Results: 4 way to 5 way adapter
- Search Results: price guarantee
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Search Results: price match
- Search Results: 110 price guarantee
- Q&A: What is Difference Between Grease Seals RG06-010 and 34823
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Vehicle Tow Bar Wiring
- Shop: Kenda 5.70-8 Bias Trailer Tire with 8" Galvanized Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - Load Range D
- Q&A: How To Connect Trailer With 5-Flat To Vehicle With 4-Flat
- Shop: Double Lip Grease Seals (pair)
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Tire w/ 12" White Spoke Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR D
- Shop: Taskmaster 5.30R12 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 12" Vesper Silver Mod Wheel - 4 on 4 - LR C
- Shop: Taskmaster 4.80R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range C
- Shop: Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel - 12" x 4" Rim - 4 on 4 - Galvanized Finish
- Shop: Kenda Karrier S-Trail ST145/R12 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range E
- Q&A: Options For Replacing An Atwood AT82543 Surge Brake Actuator
- Q&A: What Causes a Trailer With Surge Brakes To Lockup While In Reverse
- Video: Steel Spoke Trailer Wheel Spec Review
- Q&A: What is Difference Between TruRyde and Timken Grease Seals
- Q&A: Will Wheel Designed For 1/2 x 20 Wheel Stud Work With M12x1.25mm Wheel Stud?
- Q&A: Offset of the Aluminum HWT Split Spoke Trailer Wheel # AM22318HWT



Robin H.
1/27/2026
Hey Fred, how did things go with the Curt wiring harness and adapter on your Explorer? Did both your 4-way and 5-way trailer plugs connect the way you needed? Your update could make it easier for the next person with the same setup.