A 5 pin trailer plug is an essential component for connecting trailers to vehicles. The trailer plug allows for the transfer of power, lighting signals, and other functions from the vehicle to the trailer. In Australia, the wiring system for trailer plugs is slightly different from that of other countries. In this article, we will discuss the 5 pin trailer plug wiring diagram for Australia, along with some related FAQs.
Understanding the 5 Pin Trailer Plug Wiring Diagram
The wiring diagram for a 5 pin trailer plug in Australia consists of five wires, each with a specific function. These wires are usually color-coded for easy identification. The following is a breakdown of the wiring diagram:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| White | Grounding |
| Brown | Taillights |
| Yellow | Left turn signal |
| Green | Right turn signal |
| Red | Stop signal |
As shown in the table, the white wire is used for grounding, while the brown wire is for taillights. The yellow wire is for the left turn signal, the green wire is for the right turn signal, and the red wire is for the stop signal.
It is essential to ensure that the wiring is correctly installed to avoid accidents and damage to the vehicle or trailer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wire the 5 pin trailer plug:
Step 1: Prepare the Wires
Strip the ends of the wires using a wire stripper tool. Ensure that you strip enough length to make a solid connection.
Step 2: Connect the White Wire
Connect the white wire to the pin on the top left of the plug. This wire is for grounding.
Step 3: Connect the Brown Wire
Connect the brown wire to the pin on the bottom left of the plug. This wire is for taillights.
Step 4: Connect the Yellow Wire
Connect the yellow wire to the pin on the top right of the plug. This wire is for the left turn signal.
Step 5: Connect the Green Wire
Connect the green wire to the pin on the middle right of the plug. This wire is for the right turn signal.
Step 6: Connect the Red Wire
Connect the red wire to the pin on the bottom right of the plug. This wire is for the stop signal.
After completing the above steps, test the trailer plug to ensure that all functions are working correctly.
FAQs
1. Do all vehicles in Australia use a 5 pin trailer plug?
No, not all vehicles in Australia use a 5 pin trailer plug. Some vehicles may use a 7 pin or 12 pin trailer plug, depending on their towing capacity and other factors.
2. What is the difference between a 5 pin and 7 pin trailer plug?
A 5 pin trailer plug has five wires, while a 7 pin trailer plug has seven wires. The additional two wires in the 7 pin plug are usually used for electric brakes and a backup light.
3. Can I use a 7 pin trailer plug instead of a 5 pin plug on my trailer?
Yes, you can use a 7 pin trailer plug instead of a 5 pin plug. However, you will need to ensure that the wiring is correctly installed and that the vehicle and trailer are compatible.
4. Is it possible to wire a 5 pin trailer plug yourself?
Yes, it is possible to wire a 5 pin trailer plug yourself, provided that you have some basic knowledge of electrical systems and the correct tools. However, it is always recommended to seek professional help if you are not sure how to do it.
5. Where can I buy a 5 pin trailer plug?
You can purchase a 5 pin trailer plug from most automotive or hardware stores in Australia. It is also possible to order one online from various retailers.
Conclusion
A 5 pin trailer plug is a crucial component for towing trailers in Australia. It is essential to understand the wiring diagram and ensure that the wiring is correctly installed to avoid accidents and damage. The above guide and FAQs should help you wire your 5 pin trailer plug correctly and also answer any questions you may have.
