Will Removing 4-Way Connector To Install etrailer 7-Way Upgrade Kit Cause Ground Issues
Updated 05/22/2026 | Published 05/19/2026
Question:
Hey all, I am converting my tandem boat trailer from surge to electric brakes with all parts from etrailer. I’m using the E99011 with the Brightway breakaway kit. When installing the E99011, I cut the 4 pole off the end of the wire harness to put ring terminals on and then remembered that the white ground from the 4 pole was wired into the 4pole plug. Will this create a grounding issue with the brake lights and if so, what would your suggestion be to ground the brake/tail lights? Thanks in advance
asked by: Mike
Expert Reply:
Hey Mike! You’ll be fine as long as the trailer light ground wire is still tied to the trailer frame. The white wire from the old 4-way was the main ground for the lighting circuit.
On the # e99011, just run all grounds into the junction box and tie them to the main ground stud/frame ground. That should take care of it, but if you run into issues you can always run jumpers with separate grounds to the frame for anything that is affected.
What kind of boat are you towing?
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box and RV Style Connector
- Trailer Wiring
- Trailer Connectors
- Trailer End Connector
- 7 Blade
- Plug and Lead
- etrailer
more information >
Mike
5/22/2026
Thanks for the reply Robin. When I cut the end of the 4 pole plug, there was only enough of the white ground to be attached to the trailer by the coupler so there is no ground in my light circuit now. I did run a jumper from the white in the E99011 out of the box and to the frame of the trailer and am hoping it will be enough to keep the ground. The brake and running lights were working after I completed the install but haven’t towed it to the lake yet. The boat is a 2000 Maxum 2300SR and weighs in at close to 5K lbs with the trailer, fuel, and gear.