Wiring Plugs? I found 2!

[pkirill]

So I've been searching the forums for more info the best way to wire up my 2000 Explorer for a simple utility trailer and I think I've just become more confused. Here's my setup:

I have a 2000 Ford Explorer XLT that I bought used. I don't know if I have the "tow package" or not. I did find tow round gray female "outlets" that look stock (had little red rubber plugs in them). The one on the drivers side has 8 holes, 4 populated. The one on the passenger side has 8 holes, 6 populated.

At a local truck accessory shop I found a cable that looks similar to some I've seen in the forums - a plug that fits my "outlet" and has a four-flat plug on the end. But the I also found one that is more of a Tee that has four pins on one side, 6 pins on the other and four-flat plug pig-tailed from the middle!

So my questions are: What are the two stock plugs? Which cable or what "setup" do I need to plug into a simple utility trailer?

Thanks for any help - normally I consider myself pretty handy, but wiring logic (and databases) make my ears bleed...

 

[MountaineerGreen]

You just need the 4 flat connector, it connects under the drivers side tail light.

You won't need the "T" connector.

Do yourself a favor and invest in a quality hitch- the bumpers are pitiful tow points. I've seen many bent from towing, a frame hitch is a much better choice.

 

[pkirill]

Thanks for that, Evan. I have installed a tubular frame hitch - but I sort of forgot about the wiring part. My last "tow vehicle" was Jeep YJ which made for very simple wiring... Just curious, what's the other connector for - any idea?

Thanks again!

 

[MountaineerGreen]

I don't really know what the other connector is for- I've never even looked at mine. You may find the connector works for either side.

Glad to hear you got the hitch though

BTW: If you plan to tow much and have the v6, you may ought to consider adding a transmission cooler just to help your trans.

 

[IZwack]

If all else fails and you still have no idea what those plugs are for, get a multimeter or a noid light and check for high voltages while some one stomps on the breaks and turns the hazard lights on (which blinks both the left and right trailer turn signals).

If the plug follows the usual standard, Green is right turn, Left is yellow turn, Brown is running, and White is ground.
But during testing, you can ground against like a bolt on the bumper or chassis.

 

[pkirill]

Thanks guys - I'll mess with the other plug when things dry up around here. Thanks for the tip about grounding to a bolt or chassis - that will really help. The plug is a bit small to fit two probes and my fingers...

 

[CDW6212R]

Only one side should have trailer wiring. There was an option for rear back up sensors, and those wires went through one of those connectors to the bumper.

 

[Glock40cal]

I did find tow round gray female "outlets" that look stock (had little red rubber plugs in them). The one on the drivers side has 8 holes, 4 populated. The one on the passenger side has 8 holes, 6 populated.

I have that same setup on my X. Did you ever find out what the plug on the passengers side was for? Where did you get your wiring harness at? Part number?

 

[dvwoods]

Also wondering what the plug, which has six points on the passenger side is for. Is if for a 6 way connection?

 

[BonesDT]

Just found the pass side connector as well. Is it the rear sensors?