newb with a trailer wiring question

[87_gt]

i have a 1998 explorer with the eddie bauer package. i was wondering if there was a factory trailer harness somewhere under the car. i was under there and saw a plug that was kind of under the drivers side brake light, but it was a wierd oval shaped like 2 pin. i was wondering if that was it and i need an adapter or if i am looking at something else. any info appreciated
thank you

 

[Lee S.]

On my 98 XLT there is a round plug located up under the drivers side brake light. It required this adapter to convert it to a 4 prong flat plug:

http://www.etrailer.com/Merchant2/m...tore_Code=E&Product_Code=18241&Category_Code=

Your's should be the same (not sure about your 'oval plug' description but my guess is you are not looking at the right plug if it is in fact oval).

Hope this helps.

Lee

 

[87_gt]

that is it thanks a lot, do you know of any auto part stores that carry that so i dont have to order it? thank you

 

[Lee S.]

You can try the usual suspects (AutoZone, Pepboys, etc.)... you may get lucky. You can always get one from Uhaul... they should have alot of them sitting around now that they won't rent to Explorers anymore. The Ford dealer will have them too but you'll pay more than you will from Etrailer.

Lee

 

[gijoecam]

The ones from anyplace other than the dealership will require you splice the wires. The kit from the dealer is under $30 and is a direct plug-in. The kit should include the harness, plug, mounting bracket, and a screw to bolt it to the bumper. Go for the dealership one. I installed mine a few years back, and it took all of 5 minutes.

-Joe

 

[Lee S.]

The ones from anyplace other than the dealership will require you splice the wires. The kit from the dealer is under $30 and is a direct plug-in. The kit should include the harness, plug, mounting bracket, and a screw to bolt it to the bumper. Go for the dealership one. I installed mine a few years back, and it took all of 5 minutes.

-Joe

The Etrailer adapter I linked above did not require any splicing. It was a direct plug in.

Lee

 

[gijoecam]

I stand corrected.... I didn't actually click on the link because I've never seen an aftermarket one that plugged-in. I thought Ford had the market locked-up on those weather-tight connectors.

-Joe

 

[Tarron]

When I was looking for one

I found the direct plug-in ones at Auto-Zone, Advanced Auto Parts, and NAPA ... They were all about the same price. If your plug cover is missing (mine was) make sure you clean out the plug with some electronic parts spray.

 

[87_gt]

thanks everyone for the replies. i will try the usual auto stores and see what comes up