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Towing wiring problems.

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by NeutrikKnight, Feb 28, 2017.

  1. Feb 28, 2017 at 9:40 AM
    #1
    NeutrikKnight

    NeutrikKnight [OP] High pass everything.

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    Logan
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    Lift kit, aftermarket wheels.
    I've got a 4-pin towing connector on the back of my '98 Tacoma. I've never hooked it up to anything until yesterday, when I was installing an led hitch brake light for better visibility when I slow down.

    (the last guy who rear-ended me said he couldn't tell that I was braking, so I'm giving everyone behind me a leg up with that)

    Well, the 4-pin connector has no power, and I've checked each pin for voltage when my tails and turns are active, and nothing doing.

    I traced the 4-pin cable to behind my passenger side tail light, where it plugs into a black box that says "Toyota Towing Converter". It's got a six pin connector going into it, and a four pin connector going out of it to the trailer hitch.

    Anyone ever had a problem with these towing converters? I can't seem to find them online anywhere.
     
  2. Feb 28, 2017 at 9:52 AM
    #2
    frizzman

    frizzman Well-Known Member

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    If it is a Toyota towing converter the main box should be located in the cab somewhere. strange that it's near the tail light.

    Are your other brake lights working? If so then they have no excuse to hit you. Still they should be back far enough and paying attention.

    check the fuse associated with that converter, there should be one in the fuse box/panel or at the converter box itself
     
  3. Feb 28, 2017 at 10:41 AM
    #3
    NeutrikKnight

    NeutrikKnight [OP] High pass everything.

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    Lift kit, aftermarket wheels.
    My mistake, it says "Taillight Converter".
    I need glasses.
    WP_20170228_001[1].jpg
     
  4. Feb 28, 2017 at 11:41 AM
    #4
    NeutrikKnight

    NeutrikKnight [OP] High pass everything.

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    Lift kit, aftermarket wheels.
    Okay, the culprit is definitely that black box. 12 volts in, zero volts out. Time to shop around.
     
  5. Feb 28, 2017 at 11:44 AM
    #5
    frizzman

    frizzman Well-Known Member

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    wow that's an actual Toyota. disconnect it and grab the P/N and Google search.
     
  6. Feb 28, 2017 at 11:57 AM
    #6
    cruiserguy

    cruiserguy Well-Known Member

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    These trailer light convertors are actually prone to failure. Toyota issued a TSB due to this. You can wire in an aftermarket one and be just fine. This is one of the few instances I consider fine to use an aftermarket part. And I'm a picky SOB
     
  7. Feb 28, 2017 at 11:58 AM
    #7
    cruiserguy

    cruiserguy Well-Known Member

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    I think an aftermarket company even makes a plug n play box with the correct connectors, so you don't have to mess with splicing wires.
     
  8. Feb 28, 2017 at 12:04 PM
    #8
    NeutrikKnight

    NeutrikKnight [OP] High pass everything.

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    Lift kit, aftermarket wheels.
    You guys are right, Hopkins makes a custom fit version for the 1998-2004 Tacoma's for $34. Plug and play. I think I'll go with that.
     
  9. Feb 28, 2017 at 12:06 PM
    #9
    cruiserguy

    cruiserguy Well-Known Member

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    Nice, I think that's the same manufacturer I went with when replacing the same part on my 80 series Land Cruiser. Fair price too
     
  10. Mar 1, 2017 at 9:31 AM
    #10
    BartMaster1234

    BartMaster1234 Well-Known Member

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    I'll be damned a towing package on a 1st gen. Hell of a unicorn you got there.

    You can either replace the control module, or just re-run a new aftermarket wiring harness (like a Hopkins or Curt). I'm running a Hopkins in my '98 to power my ridgeline LED taillight. Super easy to install it's just a lot of cable management and zip tying.
     
  11. Mar 1, 2017 at 10:15 AM
    #11
    NeutrikKnight

    NeutrikKnight [OP] High pass everything.

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    Vehicle:
    1998 Green Tacoma TRD
    Lift kit, aftermarket wheels.
    Thanks, man. I had a feeling this truck was a little special. I'm doing my best to fix her up. After I get the new towing wiring sorted out, it'll be time for some new headlights.
     

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