There are several things you need to be aware of before ordering and installing Ford Transit MK8 tow bar wiring. First, decide upon the basics, such as 7 or 13 pin format? To run the trailer lights or lights and caravan electrics? The answer to these two questions will depend on what is going to be towed. But if you want to be able to tow anything, then it would be a 13 Pin wiring kit plus caravan accessory loom and a 13 to twin 7 pin adaptor!
The next issue is, what engine is installed on the van? At the time of writing there is the 2.2L Euro 5, 2.0L Euro 6 and, 2.0L Euro 6.2. All MK8 dedicated kits have connections in the front passenger footwell but one of the connector plugs differ from one model to another. Then, you need to find out if the van has trailer prep installed?
Trailer Prep
So, what is trailer prep? On The Ford Transit MK8 (And Custom which uses the same engines) 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 13 Pin tow bar wiring kit for the 2.0L Euro 6 with Prep would be the cheapest and quickest installation solution. If the van does not have prep or if unsure is it has then order the wiring kits that don’t mention trailer prep as these kits fit both with and without trailer prep models.
Main Connections
Regardless of whether your Transit MK8 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 towing 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 MK8 and Custom, is a complete failure! This appears to be 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 work when wet. It is really important therefore that the brain box is installed so that any water thrown towards it can drain away it rather than into it. 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.
To find out more about tow bars and towbar wiring for the Ford Transit MK8 please email us at info@budettowbars.co.uk or visit us online here https://www.budettowbars.co.uk/product-category/ford/ford-transit-mk8-v363/