13 pin adapter query

[brian_c]

Hello can anyone offer me a little advice. My new van has the 13 pin cable and my car the two seven pin sockets. So when we collected the van I bought the adaptor which they connected to the van whilst I was finishing off in the sales office.
So I didn't see them connect the one to the other. The only thing was the fitter suggested that I leave them connected so as not to misplace the adaptor in the future.
Now the simple problem of how to get them apart, I am changing the car next week and have already booked to have a tow bar fitted to the new car along with the new style13 pin socket.
I have had a pull at the plug and also tried twisting it in case that is how it is connected but can not move it at all.
At least with what I consider reasonable force,
I suppose I am going to have to have a real go at it but would first like to confirm that it should be a straight pull, or a twist to unlock then pull???? I have made sure to hold clear the dust lid during my efforts. There are no markings on the plug to suggest twisting to unlock but hopefully someone will confirm what I need to do.
I hope it won't be this difficult when we are connecting ready for towing
Thanks in anticipation Brian

 

[RayS]

13 pin plug and sockets usually need the plug rotating through 90 degrees relative to the socket to release. Once you have done this the pair fall apart very easily. Until this has been done I'm afraid pulling will not work !
When you get the new car look into the socket and you will see a square keyway (femail) running parallel with the pins. The plug has a male key. To connect match up keyway and key then turn the plug clockwise and it will lock in after 1/4 turn. Some plugs have a circular part at rightangels to the main plug body and this should end up matched with the hinged cover of the socket.
Sounds complicated but like many things easy once you have done it once.

 

[Damian]

With the plug connected to the adaptor, the "flying saucer" bit should be at the 12 o clock position directly under the socket cover.
Raise the socket cover a little and twist the flying saucer bit 90 degrees to the left and the plug will disconnect itself and it should just fall away in your hand.

 

[brian_c]

Thank you Gentlemen. Spot on instructions.
Easy When you know how, I felt a bit of a fool having to ask. I tend to be a bit heavy handed and didn't want to damage it so I knew a quick post on the forum would sort me out. Thank you again.

Regards Brian