13 pin verus 7 pin N&S Sockets

[onlyme]

I have a dilema regarding whether to fit the euro type 13pin socket or the twin 7pin N&S sockets. My vehicle is the new model Ford Galaxy and in order to protect my warranty I can only use the dedicated type wiring system.

I ordered from my supplying Ford dealer what I beleived was a twin socket wiring harness. But on receipt it turned out to be only a single N socket. I of course returned this kit and after a lot of computer searching by a very helpful storeman the final outcome was that after numerous part number changes their are only two kits available. These are the 13pin euro socket or the single 7pin N socket.

I am very relunctant to go the 13pin route as I will need convertor leads so more chance of mamalfunctions. My preference at the moment is to fit the Ford N socket thus protecting my warranty. Plus wire the S socket direct from the battery via an inline fuse and a smartcom voltage controlled relay. This would be completly independent from the cars onboard system plus give me a good voltage level feed for fridge. I can also loop in for battery etc. I do realise by taking this route that I won't have caravan reverse lights but I don't think thay are much use anyway.

I am open to advice, suggestions or if any Ford insiders can give me any more info are part numbers etc would be much appreciated.

John

 

[MikeP]

13 pin every time for me now. I converted last summer, and I think that it is a great system. Given your limited choice I would definitely go for 13 rather than 12N and a home made 12S substitute.

Fit a waterproof junction box under the gas locker of your caravan, and join your black/grey to a piece of 13 core cable. Make proper crimped or soldered connections, and make sure that the box is watertight. If you don't know exactly what you are doing then call someone who does. It will only cost you an hour's labour.

Using the above method, you avoid converter leads. They can work OK, but they introduce further connections in the system and really negate the benefits and superior connections of 13 pin.

 

[rob_jax]

Hi John,

My last two cars have both had the superior 13 pin system - it's waterproof, corrosion proof, the twist lock ensures a good electrical connection, and it's designed to handle the needs of modern caravanning. And our caravan has the 13 pin plug fitted - it just works.

Years ago we did use a 13 pin to twin N+S converter, and whilst it worked - the N+S connectors had the same problems other N+S user experience - hot fridge pins, corrosion in the winter (road salt + copper don't mix) - and the adapter was about 1 metre long - so you need to organise a way to deal with the extra cable.

Robert

 

[NormanL]

Go with the 13 pin and the converter. Why bother messing about with the wiring. I have been using them for over 4 years on my BMW X5 - no problems. Just keep all the pins lightly lubricated with WD40.

 

[Nidge1]

Hi John.

I have a BMW X5 with the 13 pin socket (as Norman L)and use the converter lead. Never had any problems to date and if we did I would just put a 13 pin plug on the van.

I would definitely go for the 13 pin socket as it is a far superior design.

Regards

Nidge

 

[GeorgeB]

Hi John,

I have the 13 pin socket on my Audi A4 & just like Norman L & Nidge I use the converter, & have been since 2001 averaging 2,500 miles a year towing, never had any problems.

The only thing you need to do is to use something to keep the "extended" wiring off the deck, I use a short bungee around the jockey wheel handle to take up the extra slack in the cable, caused by using the converter. One day i'll get round to fitting a 13 pin socket to the van, Honest I will!

GeorgeB