TV lighting socket/plugs

[sharpstick]

I want to replace that wimpy rubber 4-way plug that is hanging below my bumper to a good round socket.
I found a combination bracket with a 4-way socket and a 7 pole vblade socket at https://www.etrailer.com/Wiring/Curt/C57674.html
This still lets me plug in my old utility trailer or illuminated receiver step.
The blade looks more solid than the round version. Seven is better than 6 or 4, and I can add electric brakes etc. later.
Any suggestions on the best way to wire lighting?

[Casita Greg]

Depends on what "lighting" you are referring to. Are you talking about interior trailer lighting, as like reading lights, or are you talking about wiring up running lights?

If you are needing a standard wiring diagram for the 7-Pin connector, then here is one.

[sharpstick]

Originally Posted by Casita Greg

Depends on what "lighting" you are referring to. Are you talking about interior trailer lighting, as like reading lights, or are you talking about wiring up running lights?

Running lights. My old connector is the common flat 4 wire plug. I want to replace it with a more robust round one. (I don't know why interior lights would be connected to the TV(towing vehicle).

[sharpstick]

So, it's down to 7 way pins vs blades. The blade versions look more sturdy.

[Jon in AZ]

You don't have to have a separate 4-way plug. You can buy an inexpensive adaptor. Mine lives in the storage cubby in the back of my TV so I can always find it when I need to hook up the utility trailer.

[librarianocnj]

If you are lucky enough to find these in stock at a local Kmart, they are only $7.

http://m.kmart.com/hopkins-multi-tow...W302851110001P

[Casita Greg]

The only problem here is that you will still need to wire that unit up for use as a fully functioning 7-Pin connector, or else why bother at all if you're only using the "flat four" connector part, which you already have? If you want all 7 pins hooked up, which BTW will also give you 12 VDC for your interior loads, (also including battery charging and trailer interior lighting,) then you are in for a little bit of wiring under the tow vehicle to make it fully usable. The four flat connector merely taps into the Stop/Turn/Running lights. The 7-Pin gives you more circuits, such as ones you would need to power things like electric brakes, a battery charging circuit, (fed from the tow vehicle,) reverse lights, etc. It's all dependent on your trailers needs. If it's just a utility trailer to go to the dump with, then a 4-Pin is all you need. If you have a travel trailer, then you'll need the larger connector to accommodate all the other trailer electrical loads. Also, depending on your tow vehicle, especially with many European and Asian models, you may also need to add a lighting wire converter to make your lights work properly.

And FWIW, I wouldn't buy one of those K-Mart cheapo units because they aren't made very well, and the wiring they use is generally smaller as well. You get what you pay for. Buy a brand name.

[sharpstick]

Originally Posted by Casita Greg

The only problem here is that you will still need to wire that unit up for use as a fully functioning 7-Pin connector, or else why bother at all if you're only using the "flat four" connector part, which you already have? If you want all 7 pins hooked up, which BTW will also give you 12 VDC for your interior loads, (also including battery charging and trailer interior lighting,) then you are in for a little bit of wiring under the tow vehicle to make it fully usable. The four flat connector merely taps into the Stop/Turn/Running lights. The 7-Pin gives you more circuits, such as ones you would need to power things like electric brakes, a battery charging circuit, (fed from the tow vehicle,) reverse lights, etc. It's all dependent on your trailers needs. If it's just a utility trailer to go to the dump with, then a 4-Pin is all you need. If you have a travel trailer, then you'll need the larger connector to accommodate all the other trailer electrical loads. Also, depending on your tow vehicle, especially with many European and Asian models, you may also need to add a lighting wire converter to make your lights work properly.

Yes, I will add wiring for future brakes, battery charging, possibly reverse light. That's why I'm going with the 7 way system. And yes, I do have a utility trailer for dump runs. That's why I want both plugs. And yes, I do have a travel trailer(hint: That's why I'm on this forum) My existing 4 wire socket works, so hopefully no rewiring will be necessary.