Question:
My Exploder has the standard flat 4 trailer connection on it. I've noticed
that this connects to a gray connector that has 7-9 wires coming into it. I've
recently purchased an old ('75) camper trailer that has a battery driven water
pump in the kitchen. It has a flat 3x3 connection setup on it. I've been
unable to find a compatible connector to put on the Explorer and am probably
going to go to the more common round connectors.
Is there anything I need to know so I don't fry something important, like the
computer? Does Ford make a connector that will replace the flat 4 I have now?
Answer:
It sounds like you have the trailer tow package on your
Explorer. That gray connector under the rear bumper is
driven indirectly by relays which are located in the
same inside place as the tire jack. Therefore, I don't
think you can fry the computer.
That gray connector includes a set of wires whose purpose
is to active the relays when the adapter cable is plugged
into it. That is why there are more than 4 wires. In
other words, some of them wrap back.
The connector is designed to only power lights, and not
power up trailer accessories like water pumps. Therefore,
I think you might need to find an alternative way of supplying
general power to your trailer like with a separate 12v
battery or something.
