As an avid boater, you know that a trailer is an essential part of transporting your boat from one place to another. But just having a trailer isn’t enough; you need to make sure it’s wired properly to ensure the safety of both you and your boat. That’s why you need a good boat trailer wiring harness. This article will help you understand the different types of wiring harnesses and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Best Boat Trailer Wiring Harnesses
The best boat trailer wiring harnesses are those that are waterproof and include all the necessary components to ensure a safe and secure connection. Look for a wiring harness that is made from a durable material such as UV-resistant PVC, which is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Ensure that the harness includes a circuit breaker and fuses, as these are important safety features that will protect your boat and trailer from damage. Check for corrosion-resistant connectors and terminals to ensure a reliable connection. Make sure the harness length is appropriate for your trailer and boat setup.
- Attwood 4-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Harness Kit
- Optronics 4-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Harness
- CURT 51450 4-way Flat Trailer Wiring Harness Kit
- Hopkins Towing Solutions 4-Wire Flat Trailer Side Y-Harness
- Tekonsha 3050-P Trailer-Side 4-Way Wiring Harness
- Reese Towpower Trailer Wiring Harness
- Tekonsha 3050-P Trailer-Side 4-Way Wiring Harness
- Tow Ready 118317 4-Way Flat Trailer Wiring Harness Kit
- CURT 56245 Vehicle-Side Custom 4-Pin Trailer Wiring Harness
- Tyger Auto TG-HW2J001B Electric Wiring Kit for Trailer Hitch.
When selecting the best boat trailer wiring harness for your needs, it is important to consider the following: the size and length of the wires required for your trailer, the type of trailer (e.g. open, enclosed, or pontoon), and the number of wires needed to complete the connection. Wiring harness comes with quality components such as heavy-duty connectors and terminals, along with protective sleeving for extra protection against abrasion and corrosion. Look for a harness that includes a circuit breaker and fuse, as these are important safety features that protect your trailer and boat from damage.
What is a Boat Trailer Wiring Harness?
A boat trailer wiring harness is a device that connects the trailer’s electrical system to the boat’s electrical system to provide power and control for the trailer’s lights and other accessories. It’s also known as a trailer wiring kit or trailer wiring adapter. The wiring harness is responsible for providing power to the boat’s lights, brakes, and other components while the trailer is in tow.
Types of Boat Trailer Wiring Harnesses
Boat trailer wiring harnesses typically consist of a set of wires, colored coded according to their purpose, and a set of connectors to join the harness to the boat, the trailer, and the towing vehicle. The wiring harnesses are used to power the trailer’s lights and brakes, as well as provide a connection point for the trailer brakes and lights. Different types of wiring harnesses are available depending on the size and type of boat and trailer, as well as the type of vehicle being used to tow the trailer.
Flat Four-Wire Harness
The flat four-wire harness is the most common type of boat trailer wiring harness. It’s a simple four-wire system with a white wire for the ground, a black wire for the running lights, a green wire for the right turn signal, and a brown wire for the left turn signal. This type of wiring harness is typically used for smaller trailers and is the easiest to install.
Advantages
The main advantage of a flat four-wire harness is its simplicity. This type of wiring harness is easy to install and doesn’t require any special tools or knowledge. It’s also relatively inexpensive, so it’s a great option for those on a budget.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of a flat four-wire harness is its limited capabilities. This type of wiring harness doesn’t provide power to the brakes or reverse lights, so you’ll need to upgrade to a seven-wire system if you want those features. Additionally, the flat four-wire system requires a separate ground wire, which can be an added expense.
Round Seven-Wire Harness
The round seven-wire harness is the most common type of boat trailer wiring harness for larger trailers. It has seven wires: a white wire for the ground, a black wire for the running lights, a green wire for the right turn signal, a brown wire for the left turn signal, a blue wire for the reverse lights, a yellow wire for the brakes, and a red wire for the auxiliary power. This type of wiring harness is more complex to install than the flat four-wire, but it provides more features and is better suited for larger trailers.
Advantages
The main advantage of a round seven-wire harness is its versatility. It provides power to the brakes and reverse lights, as well as auxiliary power. Round seven-wire system doesn’t require a separate ground wire, so it’s less expensive than the flat four-wire system. It all comes down to finding a short in boat wiring.
Disadvantages
The main disadvantage of a round seven-wire harness is its complexity. This type of wiring harness requires more tools and knowledge to install correctly, so it’s best left to the professionals. It’s more expensive than the flat four-wire system.
Choosing the Right Boat Trailer Wiring Harness
When it comes time to choose the right boat trailer wiring harness for your trailer, it’s important to consider your needs. If you have a smaller trailer and don’t need the additional features of a seven-wire system, then the flat four-wire system is probably the best option. However, if you have a larger trailer and want the additional features, then the round seven-wire harness is probably the better choice.
Installing a Boat Trailer Wiring Harness
Once you’ve chosen the right boat trailer wiring harness for your trailer, it’s time to install it. This can be a daunting task, so it’s important to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. If you’re uncomfortable with this task, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Boat Trailer Wiring Harnesses
Once you have a boat trailer wiring harness installed, it’s important to maintain it and keep it in good condition. Regularly inspect the wiring for any signs of wear or damage, and replace any parts that have become worn or corroded. Make sure all of the connections are secure and free of dirt or debris.
If you experience any electrical problems with your trailer, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue before attempting any repairs. Check all the connections for signs of corrosion or damage, and test the wiring for any loose connections. Trailer lights are working properly. If you’re still having trouble, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance.
Safety Considerations for Boat Trailer Wiring Harnesses
It’s important to always keep safety in mind when working with boat trailer wiring harnesses. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves, safety glasses, and a face mask, when handling the wiring. Wiring is always secured properly and never leave any exposed wires.
What kind of wiring harness do I need to tow a trailer?
The type of wiring harness you need to tow a trailer depends on the type of vehicle you are using. Generally, you will need a four–pin flat trailer connector that matches the connector on the back of your vehicle. You may also need additional wiring to connect the lights and brakes on the trailer, depending on your vehicle and trailer setup. You may want to consult with a professional for more detailed information about the wiring harness you need for your specific towing setup.
Boat trailer wiring kit with lights
Conclusion
A boat trailer wiring harness is an essential part of transporting your boat from one place to another. There are two main types of boat trailer wiring harnesses: flat four-wire and round seven-wire. When choosing the right boat trailer wiring harness for your trailer, it’s important to consider your needs. Once you’ve chosen the right harness, it’s time to install it. This can be a daunting task, so it’s best to leave it to a professional. With the right wiring harness, you can be sure that your boat is properly wired and ready to hit the road.