Trailer wiring is an essential aspect of towing. It’s not only required by law, but it also ensures the safety of the vehicle, driver, and the public on the road. The 6 wire trailer plug wiring diagram is one of the most commonly used wiring diagrams for trailers. It consists of six wires that connect the trailer’s electrical system to the towing vehicle. In this article, we’ll provide a complete guide to the 6 wire trailer plug wiring diagram, including frequently asked questions and tables.
What is a 6 Wire Trailer Plug Wiring Diagram?
The 6 wire trailer plug wiring diagram is a schematic representation of the electrical connections between the towing vehicle and the trailer. It outlines the functions of each wire, the color code, and the pin location. The 6 wires are connected to a six-pin connector located on the trailer’s tongue or frame. The pins are numbered from 1 to 6, starting from the top left corner, and they correspond to specific functions.
Functions of Each Wire
The 6 wires in the trailer plug wiring diagram are as follows:
| Wire Color | Description |
|---|---|
| White | Ground |
| Brown | Tail/Marker Lights |
| Yellow | Left Turn/Brake Lights |
| Green | Right Turn/Brake Lights |
| Blue | Electric Brakes |
| Red | Battery/Charging |
The white wire is the ground wire that connects the trailer’s electrical system to the towing vehicle’s ground. The brown wire is used to power the tail and marker lights. The yellow and green wires are for the left and right turn signals and brake lights, respectively. The blue wire is used to provide power to the electric brakes on the trailer, while the red wire is for battery charging.
Pin Location and Color Code
The 6 wires are connected to the six-pin connector according to their functions. The pins are numbered from 1 to 6, starting from the top left corner, and they correspond to specific functions. The color code for each wire is as follows:
| Pin Number | Wire Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yellow | Left Turn/Brake Lights |
| 2 | Green | Right Turn/Brake Lights |
| 3 | Brown | Tail/Marker Lights |
| 4 | Red | Battery/Charging |
| 5 | Blue | Electric Brakes |
| 6 | White | Ground |
How to Wire a 6 Wire Trailer Plug?
Wiring a 6 wire trailer plug is a straightforward process that requires basic knowledge of electrical connections. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Gather the Required Tools
You’ll need a few basic tools to wire a 6 wire trailer plug, including wire strippers, crimping tool, heat shrink tubing, and electrical tape.
Step 2: Cut the Wires to Length
Cut each wire to the required length, leaving enough slack for easy connection. It’s recommended to use stranded wire instead of solid wire to ensure flexibility and durability.
Step 3: Strip the Wires
Using a wire stripper, strip the insulation off the end of each wire, exposing about 1/2 inch of bare wire.
Step 4: Crimp the Connectors
Crimp connectors onto the end of each wire, making sure to use the correct connector for the wire gauge. It’s recommended to use heat shrink tubing to cover the crimped connection and protect it against moisture and corrosion.
Step 5: Connect the Wires to the Connector
Connect each wire to the corresponding pin on the six-pin connector, following the wiring diagram. It’s recommended to use a wiring harness that’s designed for the specific make and model of the trailer to ensure compatibility and reliability.
Step 6: Test the Wiring
Finally, test the wiring by connecting the trailer to the towing vehicle and turning on the lights and brakes. Make sure all the lights and brakes are working properly and that there’s no voltage drop or other issues.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Difference Between a 4 Wire and 6 Wire Trailer Plug?
A: A 4 wire trailer plug is used for trailers that don’t have electric brakes, while a 6 wire trailer plug is used for trailers that have electric brakes. The two additional wires in the 6 wire trailer plug are used to provide power to the electric brakes and to charge the trailer’s battery.
Q2: Can I Use a 7 Wire Trailer Plug on a 6 Wire Trailer?
A: Yes, you can use a 7 wire trailer plug on a 6 wire trailer by simply ignoring the extra wire. However, it’s recommended to use a plug that matches the trailer’s electrical system to avoid confusion and ensure compatibility.
Q3: What Happens if I Connect the Wires Incorrectly?
A: Connecting the wires incorrectly can cause a variety of issues, including short circuits, blown fuses, voltage drops, and damage to the electrical system. It’s essential to follow the wiring diagram carefully and double-check the connections to avoid any problems.
Q4: Can I Wire the Trailer Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?
A: While wiring a trailer is a simple process, it requires basic knowledge of electrical connections and wiring diagrams. If you’re not confident in your skills, it’s recommended to hire a professional to do the job to ensure safety and reliability.
Q5: How Often Should I Check the Trailer Wiring?
A: It’s recommended to check the trailer wiring before each trip to ensure that all the lights and brakes are working properly and that there are no issues with the wiring. It’s also essential to check the wiring periodically for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or damaged connectors, and to replace any damaged parts immediately.
Conclusion
The 6 wire trailer plug wiring diagram is an essential tool for anyone who tows a trailer with electric brakes. It outlines the functions of each wire, the color code, and the pin location, making it easy to wire the trailer correctly. By following the steps outlined in this article and consulting the frequently asked questions and tables, you can ensure that your trailer is wired safely and correctly, providing reliable performance for years to come.
