OEM Connector

My dad has a 96 explorer and is trying to find a bumper mountable trailer wiring connection that will connect to his oem connection. I hope that makes sense.

He found one for an 02-06 model that will allow you to mount the plug-in onto the bumper, but he didnt know if the trailer harness connection on the vehicle side was the same or not for his year. Can someone help me?

 

[MountaineerGreen]

What kind of connection are you wanting? A 4 flat plug or a round style?

 

[jbruse]

The connection that he bought was with the four flat, he would prefer to have a permanent connection mounted to his bumper so then he doesnt have to mess with hooking and unhooking the oem connector from the vehicle every time

 

[jbruse]

he needs the four flat connection but the 7 round would be nice

 

[jbruse]

the 7 pin connection would be nice with an adapter for the 4 flat

 

[gijoecam]

The 7-pin will require a bunch of additional wiring. If the trailer is big enough that it needs electric brakes, it's too big to be pulling with a 96 Explorer anyways.

As for the 4-flat, any Ford dealership should be able to get the wiring kit for it. The truck is already pre-wired with all the necessary fuses and relays for the trailer lights. The OEM harness plugs into a connector tucked up behind the driver's side taillight. If you lay on your back and look straight up behind the light, you'll see a round ~1" diameter gray plug with a cap on it. The OEM wiring will connect there.

Also, be sure that the dealership sells the whole kit. They can order just the wiring for about $13 IIRC, but the whole kit comes with the wiring and a handy mounting bracket, bolt, and nut for the plug to hang from on the bumper.

-Joe

 

[jbruse]

you wouldn't have the part number for the whole kit do you, the dealership I talked to said they only can get the wire and not the bracket for the bumper

bye the way thanks so much for all the help

 

[gijoecam]

I don't offhand... I'll look in the file when I get home... I think the receipt might be in there...

-Joe

 

[MountaineerGreen]

AZ sells a 7 prong plug with a 4 flat connection on it as well. I got it, a wiring kit and brake controller for ~$100.

I cut a hole in my bumper to mount my plug......