Are you planning to tow a trailer using your vehicle? If yes, then you must have a wiring system that can connect the trailer’s electrical components to your vehicle’s electrical system. A seven-pin trailer wiring system is the standard wiring system for most trailers, and it includes a breakaway switch. In this article, we are going to discuss the 7 pin trailer wiring diagram with a breakaway switch.
What is a 7 Pin Trailer Wiring System?
A 7 pin trailer wiring system consists of seven wires that connect the trailer to the towing vehicle. Each wire has a specific function, and they are color-coded to make it easy to identify each wire’s function. The seven wires are:
Wire Color | Function |
---|---|
Black | Battery Charge |
Blue | Electric Brakes |
Brown | Taillights |
Green | Right Turn Signal |
Orange | Reverse Lights |
Red | Left Turn Signal |
White | Ground |
These wires are housed in a connector that plugs into the towing vehicle’s electrical system. The trailer’s electrical components such as the brakes, taillights, and turn signals receive power from the towing vehicle through this connector.
What is a Breakaway Switch?
A breakaway switch is a safety device that applies the trailer’s brakes when it is disconnected from the towing vehicle. The switch is connected to the trailer’s braking system and the towing vehicle’s electrical system. When the switch senses that the trailer has become disconnected, it activates the trailer’s brakes, bringing it to a stop. This safety device is necessary in case the trailer becomes disconnected while on the road, preventing it from causing an accident.
7 Pin Trailer Wiring Diagram with Breakaway
When wiring a trailer with a breakaway switch, it is important to follow the correct wiring diagram. The following is the 7 pin trailer wiring diagram with a breakaway switch:
Towing Vehicle | Trailer | Function |
---|---|---|
Black | Black | Battery Charge |
Blue | Blue | Electric Brakes |
Brown | Brown | Taillights |
Green | Green | Right Turn Signal |
Orange | Orange | Reverse Lights |
Red | Red | Left Turn Signal |
White | White | Ground |
Blue | Black | Brakes |
Blue | White | Brakes Ground |
Black | Blue | Breakaway Battery |
White | Blue | Breakaway Switch |
The breakaway switch is connected to the towing vehicle’s battery through the black wire. The blue wire connects the brake controller on the towing vehicle to the trailer brakes. The blue wire also connects the breakaway battery to the trailer brakes in case of an emergency. The white wire connects the breakaway switch to the towing vehicle’s electrical system.
FAQs
What happens if the breakaway switch is activated?
If the breakaway switch is activated, it will apply the trailer’s brakes, bringing it to a stop. This will prevent the trailer from continuing to move and causing an accident.
Can I tow a trailer without a breakaway switch?
It is not safe to tow a trailer without a breakaway switch. The switch is a safety device that is necessary in case the trailer becomes disconnected from the towing vehicle. The brakes will prevent the trailer from causing an accident and damaging property.
How do I test the breakaway switch?
To test the breakaway switch, disconnect the trailer from the towing vehicle and apply power to the switch. If the switch is working correctly, it will activate the trailer’s brakes, bringing it to a stop.
Do I need any special tools to wire a trailer with a breakaway switch?
You do not need any special tools to wire a trailer with a breakaway switch. The wiring is straightforward, and you can use basic electrical tools such as wire cutters, strippers, and crimpers. However, if you are not familiar with electrical systems, it is best to have a professional do the wiring for you.
What is the difference between a 7 pin trailer wiring system and a 4 pin trailer wiring system?
The main difference between a 7 pin trailer wiring system and a 4 pin trailer wiring system is the number of wires. A 7 pin system has seven wires, while a 4 pin system has only four wires. A 7 pin system is more complex and can handle more electrical components such as electric brakes and reverse lights.
In conclusion, a 7 pin trailer wiring system with a breakaway switch is essential for safe towing. The wiring is straightforward, and you can follow the wiring diagram to wire your trailer correctly. Remember to test the breakaway switch periodically to ensure that it is working correctly. If you are not familiar with electrical systems, it is best to have a professional do the wiring for you.