Trailer Plugs and Sockets

7 pin and 13 pin trailer plugs, sockets and adaptors for towing electrics — in plastic and aluminium, with pre-wired socket plates, coiled extension leads and plug holders.

7 Pin or 13 Pin

This is the decision that matters. The 7 pin plug is the most common connection for towing and handles the lighting on most trailers and caravans — but road lighting is all it carries. The 13 pin connection covers the same lighting circuits and adds auxiliary connections in a single coupling, which is what a caravan or a trailer with powered equipment needs.

If you are replacing like for like, match what is already on the vehicle. If the vehicle and trailer differ, an adaptor is usually quicker and cheaper than changing either end.

7 Pin Plugs and Sockets

Available in plastic and aluminium. Aluminium costs more and stands up better to knocks and long-term exposure, so it is the usual choice on working vehicles and agricultural trailers; plastic is fine for lighter or occasional towing. Pins are marked and only assemble one way, which makes wiring straightforward.

13 Pin Plugs and Sockets

The 13 pin plug and socket are available separately, along with a coiled extension lead for runs where the standard cable will not reach.

Adaptors Between 7 and 13 Pin

Adaptors are listed in both directions — 13 pin socket to 7 pin plug, and 7 pin socket to 13 pin — so a mismatch between vehicle and trailer can be solved without rewiring either. Worth keeping one in the vehicle if you tow more than one trailer.

Pre-Wired Sockets and Accessories

The 7 pin socket on plate comes pre-wired on a flanged mounting plate, ready to bolt onto the towbar — the quickest route to a tidy installation and a sensible option if you would rather not wire a socket from scratch. Coiled extension leads cover longer drawbar runs, and the plug holder gives the plug somewhere to sit when the trailer is uncoupled, keeping the contacts out of the dirt and water.

Wiring a Plug or Socket

Start by taking the plug or socket apart. The centre section that the wires fasten into lifts out, giving clear access to the terminal screws so each wire can be fixed to the correct pin before reassembling. Doing it that way is much easier than trying to work through the back of an assembled connector.

Choosing a Plug or Socket

• Match the pin count to the vehicle and trailer — or use an adaptor
• Aluminium for working vehicles, plastic for lighter use
• Pre-wired socket on plate for a quicker towbar installation
• Coiled extension leads where the standard cable is too short
• A plug holder keeps contacts clean when uncoupled

Check the individual product pages for pin count, material and cable length before ordering.