Ford Explorer: 1997 tow wiring harness??

Most Explorers (maybe all) in '97 came with the "Trailer Tow Prep", if
not the trailer package. That included the wiring to run the trailer
lights without a problem, but no connector or pigtail lead as provided
in the package (which also included limited slip, but that is about
all). The Hoppy or the Ford trailer wiring adaptor plugs in between the
plug and socket in the wiring behind the driver's side taillight and
provides a "T" connection and a pigtail that ends in a flat trailer
connector. The conversion from the separate turn signal to the combined
turn/stop used on trailers is already provided in the truck wiring as is
the needed isolation to prevent loading down the system. It is a quick,
plug and go addition that is without trouble. I heard some unconfirmed
stories about older Explorers and the need for an external relay package
costing $60-$70, but they are not needed on this model. Good Luck!

=Vic=
Bear Gap, PA

Linus wrote: 

I recently had a need to use a trailer and make light connections. There
are 'tap' bulbs available that simply replace the existing bulbs in the rear
lights that have 'pig tails' to make trailer connections. These work 'OK'
however the flasher does not handle the added bulbs very well.

I got a 'trailer light' wiring package from UHaul for about
$50 that uses 'tab bulbs' and a direct connection to the battery. The
'taps' provide the signal to a small module in the wiring kit, however the
current comes from the battery. This kit was easy to install and performed
without any problems. The only difficulty with this kit is the connection
to the trailer. It is a unusual connector that seems to match the standard
wiring harness used by UHaul. It is a row of 'bullet' sockets that does not
seem to match anything other than UHaul. It would be easy to make an
adapter if necessary if your trailer already has a different connector.

Tim

>I have a 97 4 dr XLT. This truck does not have the tow package. I'm 

It's on the drivers side of the truck. It will be round and have a red nipple
cap over it to keep water out. Mine was about 5 inches forward of the bumper
about 6 inches from the left of the car(from behind).