Trailer Hitch For Tailgating

[Rydogg]

I have a trailer hitch on my brand new 2005 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer edition. And I don't ever tow anything (boats, cars, etc.). However, if the trailer hitch is wired for power to connect the taillights, would it be possible to have some sort of converter to make it an electrical outlet for tailgating?

Does this sort of thing exist? For example, if you were tailgating for a football game or a concert, and you needed an electrical outlet to plug in a TV, IPOD, etc. Would this be able to be done? Do they make a converter of some sort?

I did a search, and I wasn't sure the correct terminology, but nothing was showing up for me under "Hitch Electrical Outlet".

Thank you!

RYAN

 

[Albino 94LTD]

Inverter

Don't you have a 12v outlet back there??

You can get a power inverter just about anywhere;http://www.target.com/gp/search/602-1004891-4536664?field-keywords=power+inverter&url=index%3Dtarget&ref=sr_bx_1_1

 

[Rydogg]

I am an idiot...how do I get a 12V outlet back there?

I have a big hitch, and then next to it I have a little black box. I heard that the black box is the electrical outlet that is used to power the lights if I were to be hooking up a trailer.

Well, I will never be hooking up a trailer, so I want to figure out exactly what I would need to buy or what I would need to do in order to hook up a TV for a football tailgate. Football season is right around the corner, and I have seen people do this for years. I just didn't know if my new car would have this capability.

Thanks for any help/suggestions.

RYAN

 

[CDW6212R]

The trailer wiring power wire will be about 16 gauge in size. That will work fine for those low wattage lights, but it can't power much else. You would do well to run a nice 10 gauge power wire to the back for an inverter or 12v outlet. I added an outlet in my hatch jamb, for my work strobe light. For the 95 Explorer you should be able to use the cigarette wire in the middle of the dash, it should be a large beige/blue color I think. Good luck,

 

[Albino 94LTD]

The 12v outlet I speak of would be inside the vehicle behind one of the wheel tubs. In my '03 Aviator, it's on the passenger side.

 

[Essex4x4]

7 way trailer adapter to 12v and 4+5 way
http://www.etrailer.com/pc-A~TC-127.htm

 

[Rydogg]

That is exactly what I am looking for. Thanks for the link. Does anyone know if I will have to run any special wiring or will just quick connect?

Thank you!

 

[Essex4x4]

That is exactly what I am looking for. Thanks for the link. Does anyone know if I will have to run any special wiring or will just quick connect?

Thank you!

pm sent