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neileo
User
Mar 14, 2017, 7:51 AM
Post #1 of 7
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Trailer brake wiring
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i have a 2005 dodge dakota, I'm am buying a trailer that has electronic brakes on it and I need to get the hook up on my truck for it. I have the 4 prong light wiring hook up but it doesnt work. im not entirly sure what all i need for trailer brakes. i know i need the actual 7 prong hook up and wiring for that, which im not sure where it needs wired too, also do i need a brake controller or is that just an extra option? is there anything else? help and advice is appriciated
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 14, 2017, 8:47 AM
Post #2 of 7
(1359 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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Can you explain why 4 wire doesn't work? No it wouldn't work for the new trailer but should work for a 4 wire now?
OK - First thing I'd check if the truck is already wired for "Towing" and a plug awaiting at the rear. If so you could be all set with an adaptor specifically made to a properly wired trailer.
This can be quite the trick to wire properly for what you are getting plus knowing it's wired properly as well.
For this I default to the U-Haul full service places for at least the parts you will need up to letting them do it or fix what you have still unsure.
You might find your truck's tow rating isn't enough for this trailer and find that help isn't going to be friendly for this meaning plain not do it.
Do some research on what you have and what specs of what you are planning to tow before you are sorely disappointed like your truck isn't up to this at all never mind the wiring,
T
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neileo
User
Mar 14, 2017, 9:05 AM
Post #3 of 7
(1348 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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i had a small utility trailer that was 4 prong for the lights, i would plug the lights in and they would work, but when i would drive it would randomly stop working and turn a dash light on iin my truck, then it would turn off and start working again, i think there is a faulty connection somewhere, i believe my truck has a tow package but im not sure if it came with a spot to hook up the brakes or not, is there a way i could take the 4prong out and instal the 7 prong one in its place? my truck should be able to pull this trailer, and the cargo i am loading into the trailer is not that heavy, it has a 4.7 liter magnum, the towing capacity is 3150 to 4550 lbs
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 14, 2017, 9:20 AM
Post #4 of 7
(1344 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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Towing capacity isn't a range it's a MAX amount listed on your truck. If trailer has brakes at all it begs knowing what it's maximum is as well. They must match up and be within limits.
Hey if you've hauled at all you should already know you are a total hazard for good control of vehicle and trailer towing. Already asked to look and see if a plug is there waiting or what? Why you get a dash light now suggests it's already hacked up even for the lightest trailer,
T
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neileo
User
Mar 15, 2017, 7:36 AM
Post #5 of 7
(1325 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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the wiring that is on my truck looks factory installed since it comes from one plug and splits in the trailer light hook up and my license plate lights, i saw no other plug for trailer brake wiring, i believe the reason for the dash light is because of corrosion inside the connector, when i purchased the truck awhile ago the cover for the connection was missing and i didnt start hauling anything till last year, which was a small utility trailer
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 15, 2017, 7:53 AM
Post #6 of 7
(1319 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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OK - Same thing and great if already wired from factory plug is an adaptor now just take that one off. Then search for the adaptor for what factory left you that mates with your trailer is when I suggested U-Haul if near you stop by one. You could order specific plug from whatever suits you.
This is where you might find it isn't set up for the next trailer nor capable or some other snag. I can't know what you have nor what trailer set up is exactly.
IDK - Some trucks will list out option packages inside glove boxes and looking at driver's door jam tells all about tires and towing capability. Hopefully existing hitch and ball are marked with load capacity and embossed info on them - most do.
You sound unsure of the truck and what it came with OE or what's there and really don't know if the next trailer is properly set up in wait either. The places that rent trailers like U-Haul and would be others too just know they are all over the place take on this as a specialty and have parts usually thru them still called "Hitch World" or was just recently.
Best I can do for you with not much known,
T
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Mar 15, 2017, 9:29 AM
Post #7 of 7
(1312 views)
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Re: Trailer brake wiring
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If you have a four pin plug from ther factory, then your truck is not wired for trailer brakes. You not only will have to install a seven pin connector but run the wiring for the brakes also.
You really need to let an electrical shop do this for you.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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