7 Way Trailer Plug: What You Need to Know to Tow
If you’re planning to tow any type of trailer, you should know about the ins and outs of the 7 way trailer plug. Keep reading to find out about the most important aspects of the 7 way trailer plug.
What Is a 7 way Trailer Plug?
It is essential that your trailer indicates your intentions to other drivers on the road when towing a trailer. This means that your trailer needs to be connected to power for it to signal turns, braking, and reversing. The wire and connector used to provide power for its various functions to your trailer is known as the 7 way trailer plug or 7 pin trailer connection. RVs, cargo trailers and dump-/landscape trailers are among the most common users of the 2-inch diameter connector. This 2 inch connector is important for vehicle safety on the road.
What Does a 7 way Trailer Plug Do?
The 7 different actions/connectors on the trailer connector, get their power from the 7 pins on the plug.
We will now take a look at the wires of the seven pins to see what function is powered by each pin
the wiring scheme of the 7 way trailer plug will likley control the following functions:
- left turn signal/stop
- right turn signal/stop
- tail lights
- electric brakes
- backup/reverse or auxiliary lights
- 12V battery connector
- ground wire
Are All 7 way Trailer Plugs the Same?
No, let’s look at why. It’s important to know that there are different types of the 7 way trailer plugs wired for RVs. This is because not all manufacturers are using the same color coordination for their plugs. Try not to rely on wire colors only. Also, note that the raised portion on the circular plug should be placed at the top. This can aid in orienting the wiring according to the location of the pins.
Does a 7 way Trailer Plug Control Brakes?
In a way, yes, It is meant to only establish a connection to the trailer.
Can I Change My 4-Pin Trailer Plug to a 7 way Trailer Plug?
Yes, it is possible. Use a wiring kit To easily change from 4 wires to 7. Such wiring kits are available on our website.
Can I Replace My 7 way Plug trailer plug?
Yes you can! Sometimes the plugs need to be replaced due to damage or other conditions. This can either be done by a mechanic, or in a DIY project.
When you decide to do it yourself, you have 2 options. It is usually easier to replace the entire wiring harness, including cable and plug.
Alternatively, only replace the plug if the cable remains in good condition. For this, you can obtain replacement plugs.
What is the Color Code for 7 Way Trailer Wiring?
Various manufacturers might color code their wire differently. That’s why you need to always check with the manufacturer chart on coloring to ensure the right installment.
What is the Color Code for 7 Way Trailer Wiring?
Before the step-by-step instructions, we’ll look at the wiring process. We will begin to discuss the most widely used color code for 7-way wiring harnesses.
The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) Standard, for example, is distinct from that of the RV industry. There are:
- SAE Standard
- RV Standard
If you are unsure about what exactly each wire does, the easiest way to figure it out is to use a circuit tester.
Important Towing Tips & How to wire a Trailer with a 7 Way Trailer Plug
Here are some important towing tips to keep you safe on the road.
Prepare for Trailer Wiring Installation
First make sure that you have all that you need such as:
- A junction box to organize and secure wiring
- A breakaway kit in case your trailer becomes disconnected
- A brake controller to control trailer braking
In case you need to replace your existing lights, you can either buy individual trailer lights or invest in a complete trailer light kit that includes all the essentials. Before proceeding with the installation of new lights, it’s advised to remove the old ones. However, if the need for replacement is not there, you can use a 7 way harness instead.
Locate or Install Junction Box
First, take off the cover of the junction box. It is usually located near the front. Remove the nuts from each terminal. If you’re installing a new junction box, select an appropriate location for installation. E.g. the inside edge of your trailer tongue, that is within reach of your wires but away from any interfering components. Alternatively, you can integrate the new wiring harness with your trailer’s current wiring if you don’t have or don’t want to install a junction box.
Make Trailer Connections
WITH JUNCTION BOX
To add a new 7 way connector to your junction box, first remove the nuts on each junction box stud. However, if you’re replacing existing wiring, remove the old wiring by removing each terminal from the junction box. After cutting any excess wiring, use a crimping tool to adequately treat your wire. Place the terminals onto their corresponding studs in the junction box based on their functions. Finally, reinstall the nuts and secure any excess wire with wire clips.
WITHOUT JUNCTION BOX:
If without a junction box, just use a heat gun and a button connector to make these wiring connections. Use wire clips to secure any excess wire.
Vehicle Side
It’s time to wire the vehicle once the trailer is hooked up. Let’s get started:
For the 7-way connector
Assuming that your vehicle is equipped with a 7-way connector, connecting the trailer-end connector to the vehicle-end connector is all it takes to get you ready for towing.
You either have a four-way connector or no connector at all, other methods need to be applied. Make sure to use the right one.
You want to discuss this topic with us or share any questions with us? Come to our Facebook-Community!
