How to Wire Trailer Lights for a Ford Arrowstar
Ford's Aerostar minivan was among the first generation of minivans, produced from 1986 through 2005. Built on a light-duty truck frame, rather than the car frame of many of its competitors, the Aerostar was a good candidate for light hauling. In order to pull a trailer legally and safely, however, the Aerostar needs a wiring upgrade that allows for connecting the lights on the rear of any trailer. Fortunately, many aftermarket options allow Aerostar owners to tap into their vehicle's existing tail-light wire harness for about $20 to $30.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Socket wrench and socket set
- T-connector for Ford Aerostar
- 4-pole trailer light harness
- Electricians tape
Instructions
-
-
1
Open the Aerostar hatch and lift the gate. Pull back the carpet behind one of the tail lights and continue pulling until the back of the bulbs and the lens are exposed.
-
2
Locate the wire harness that connects the rear lights to the vehicle's wiring system. Disconnect the wiring by pulling the harness apart.
-
-
3
Plug one end of the T-connector into the vehicle's wiring system. Plug the vehicle's tail lights back into the other end of the T-connector.
-
4
Locate a nearby screw or bolt secured to the vehicle body or frame and remove by turning counterclockwise. Slip the metal eye of the T-connector's wiring through the screw or bolt and replace it by turning clockwise until it is secure against the body or frame.
-
5
Twist the exposed green wires on the T-connector to the green wire on the 4-pin connector. Wrap the connection with a 2-to-3-inch piece of electrician's tape.
-
6
Repeat Step 5 for each of the remaining yellow, brown and white wires.
-
7
Replace the Aerostar's interior carpeting and plastic cowling. Depress the brake and check the turn signals in both directions to ensure a complete circuit for all lights.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For a more permanent connection, the T-connector wires can be soldered to the 4-pin connector. They must still be wrapped with electricians tape to ensure they are insulated from a short or contacting one another.
Vehicle wiring can differ from one model year to the next. Make sure you purchase a T-connector designed specifically for your vehicle's make, model and year.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
