Tow Bar Wiring To Fit The Transit Custom

There are several things you need to be aware of before ordering and installing tow bar wiring to the Ford Transit Custom. Once you have decided upon the basics, such as 7 or 13 pin format and whether the wiring is just to run the trailer lights or lights and caravan electrics (to find out more about tow bar wiring in general please click here). The next issue is, is the engine installed the 2.0L Euro 6 , 2.0L Euro 6.2 or 2.2L Euro 5? This is because the connector plugs contained in the different models differ from one another. Finally, you need to find out if the van has trailer prep installed?

Trailer Prep

So, what is trailer prep? It varies between manufacturers and vehicles but on The Ford Transit Custom it means there may be a (blanked off) plug located between the spare wheel holder and near side rear wheel arch, as can be seen on the picture below.

If Trailer Prep is installed on the van, the wiring kit for trailer prep can be ordered. This has a price advantage (as there is less actual wire needed) and a quicker installation time. For example, if your van is the 2.0L Euro 6 version the 7 Pin tow bar wiring kit for the 2.0L Euro 6 with Prep would be the cheapest and quickest installation solution. Though you could also install the wiring kit for vans without trailer prep.

Main Connections

Regardless of whether your Transit Custom has trailer prep, the main connections are made in the front passenger foot well. On kits for models without trailer prep the wiring runs from the towing socket at the rear, along the chassis rail to the front footwell. That means these kits can be fitted to the van regardless of whether it has trailer prep or not.

Coding

After installing the wiring loom, the van will need to be coded. Van coding is where the van is plugged into a diagnostic scanner and the relevant coding work (as shown in the fitting instructions) is carried out. From dedicated wiring kit installation the trailer lights operate as expected. But for the trailer related safety functions (Dash board tell tales etc.) built into the van by Ford to work, coding is required.

Wiring Faults

Fortunately, modern wiring is very reliable. The only fault which sometimes arises on the Custom, is a complete failure. Which is pretty much always due to the incorrect installation of the control box in the front passenger foot well. This electronic brain box, like everything electrical does not survive getting wet. It is really important the box is installed so that any water thrown at it can drain away from it. This correct orientation is shown in the picture below. It is also worth noting that water damage is not covered by the warranty offered on this product or any electrical products for that matter.

For detailed fitting instructions on the various vehicle specific dedicated tow bar wiring kits for the Ford Transit Custom, please click on the product data sheet of the wiring kits listed below. For more help and guidance on installing a tow bar wiring kit onto your Ford Transit Custom please email info@budets.com