Trailer Light Wiring

[MorganMcCann]

I recently put a Reese Hitch on my truck, but I don't have the trailer light connection. There is a round connector just above my license plate light on the driver's side that has 4 wires. Is that for the trailer lights? Which connector do I need?

http://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-Vehicle-Wiring/Ford/Ranger/1999/118241.html?vehicleid=19991172314

http://www.etrailer.com/Custom-Fit-Vehicle-Wiring/Ford/Ranger/1999/118325.html?vehicleid=19991172317

 

[RonD]

Yes, that connector is most likely for trailer lights

Have a look here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/TrailerLights.shtml

 

[MorganMcCann]

So do I need the cheaper one? Or the more expensive one?
I didn't have a factory tow package, but I did have the off road package

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

It's been so long since I hooked up my wifes car that I can't remember the exact reason for the little box on the wiring in the second link. It has something to do with separating the turn and signal light
I don't believe it's needed however I would suggest contacting the manufacturer.

Richard

 

[MorganMcCann]

Well I ordered the one without the box, so will find out.
I hope it works.

 

[MorganMcCann]

Went to test it today, everything worked except the left turn signal and left brake. The right worked fine.
Checked the left side with a battery and some wire at the plug, and it worked perfect.
I'm assuming I need to get the tail light converter?

 

[hondaxr650]

Went to test it today, everything worked except the left turn signal and left brake. The right worked fine.
Checked the left side with a battery and some wire at the plug, and it worked perfect.
I'm assuming I need to get the tail light converter?

Your truck has separate brake and turn signal bulbs, so you'll need an adapter with a converter to bring those 2 together into the single bulb on the trailer.

 

[MorganMcCann]

So, I need the tail light converter?

 

[hondaxr650]

So, I need the tail light converter?

Yep.

 

[exbass94]

Trailers use the same bulb for turn signal and brake lights. A lot of vehicles are the same way. If your truck's taillights are set up this way, you don't need a converter box.

If your vehicle has separate bulbs for turn signals and brakes, you'll need the converter box so it'll work with a "same-bulb-for-turn-signals-and-brake-lights" trailer setup.