I'm trying to hook up the wiring harness for a trailer in my Jetta. The instructions don't make total sense. If I hook them up the way the instructions say this will cause the lights to only light up when I break or will act like four ways when I signal. Do I need a relay of some sort. Thanks Paul
Trailer Wiring
Oct 19, 2003
9 Replies
You need to get a converter unit to accommodate the separate turn/brake lamps of the VW and the combined turn/brake lamp system of the trailer. Usually around $20-30. The unit is generally available at any store that carries trailer wiring and lighting accessories.
--TW
Just out of interest: Do all trailers in the US use combined turn/brake lamp systems?
Ingo
Once in a while you see them with separate turn signals but it is very rare.
Jim B.
Coleman (in 1991...) had a common running light across two lamps, one of which was the brake, and the outboard one was the turn signal. Plus a third "lamp" for a reflector and a small reversing light. Our old Coleman from
1985 had one common light for everything, including the reversing light in the same housing.
I did some googling myself in the mean time, and found shematics for
4/5/6 and 7 wire connectors for trailer lights - isn't that a bit of a problem if you rent or borrow a trailer?Ingo
4 wire is used for lightweight utility trailers. I am not sure about the 5 wire. My trailers have 6 wires but one does nothing. Left light, right light, running lights, ground and electric brakes. The 7 wire can have turn signals and sometimes backup lights or 12 volts for interior lights or battery charging on a deep cycle battery in the trailer. A truck that is really set up to tow a bigger tailer has the
6 or 7 c> snipped-for-privacy@doesthisblockporkm>> Once in a while you see them with separate turn signals but it is very >> rare.
Jim B.
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Now, that is something we don't have over here in europe. All brakes on trailers for cars are operated mechanically - that is, if the trailer in question has brakes on it. They work by compressing a part in the towing bar when the trailer starts pushing onto the car. Aren't there reliability issues w/ electric brakes?
Yep, this also helps to keep your own from being damaged if you do something stupid when driving or coupling/decoupling the trailer ;-) Anyway, thanks for information!
Ingo
Jim B.
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