color code for hookup plug

richardjohnsonlaw · 12-13-2003, 10:05 AM

I have a 99 28 ft. Excella and need to replace the hookup plug. Does anyone have the code for where each wire goes on the new plug? Thanks, Richard Johnson

**CanoeStream** · 12-13-2003, 10:44 AM

Welcome aboard Richard! Be careful though -- these forums are addicting. Just remember to take your "baby" out camping.

The variety of Airstream wiring schemes can be seen at: http://www.airstream.com/product_lin...faq.html#plugs

Details on the modern 7-way connector can be seen at: http://lib1.store.vip.sc5.yahoo.com/.../wirecolor.gif

Navigator · 12-13-2003, 10:59 AM

Oh Dear!
Some one disconnected the hitch, and drove off with the umbelical attached!
Ben there, done that.

wb13798 · 12-14-2003, 10:24 AM

thnx
i have been looking for hook up info.

Davydd · 12-14-2003, 04:11 PM

The corporate Airstream site referenced earlier in this thread gives the diagram for the plug at the Airstream end that varies with the model year. You have to check your vehicle for that end. Recent GM trucks and SUVs with factory harness installations do a good job with their 7 wire plugs by having a clear diagram on the protection cap. I don't know how other manufacturers handle it.

My 1971 plug was totally different than my Trailblazer. It appears the 1999 Airstream plug is closer to my Trailblazer but it is not exactly identical.

**CanoeStream** · 12-14-2003, 08:15 PM

Okay, I had the info quickly at hand because I soon have to go on the road and make the conversion from the 1976 seven round pins to the modern 7-pin flat plug. Can anybody say how readily I will be able to take apart the old trailer side plug? Or is it molded right around the wires and plug body?

If it's the latter I'll have my VOM along with and can match wires to plug position, thus matching function from the diagrams...

Any clue on how the "1966 Thru and Including 1981" trailer side plugs were put together?? Thank you!

Davydd · 12-14-2003, 08:28 PM

Bob,

They come apart easy. I'll post a picture here of my 1971 plug that was the same at both ends of the cord. I took the vehicle end off and attached the wires to a modern plug that fit into my Trailblazer. As I mentioned earlier you have to realign the wires and even ignore the colors. You just have to figure out the matching combination.

JPAIRSTREAM · 12-14-2003, 08:40 PM

http://www.airstream.com/airstream/p...lug1966-81.pdf

Theo · 01-10-2004, 10:40 AM

Useful knowledge to take with me to pick up my A/S next week. This site rocks..

Theo

**CanoeStream** · 01-10-2004, 11:51 AM

Theo -- I did this recently. Your perspective on the diagrams may be mirror imaged from what the website intended. Just keep an open mind. Verify your tow vehicle's wire functions -- the 7-plug hinged plastic cap has a diagram on mine. Airstream's listed wire color functions for your model-year are quite accurate.

I needed to change the terminal connectors on the trailer end and was aided greatly by bringing an assortment along with a wire stripper/crimper. I found one like this link at my local fleet store (hardware, Home Depot, etc). You need three size 12-10 and four size 16-14 spade connectors I believe -- but bring spares if Murphy rides along.

We blew a fuse in the truck changing bad running light bulbs with them turned on. Also never test the breakaway switch with a Prodigy brake controller turned on -- it'll fry the brake controller.

**CanoeStream** · 01-10-2004, 11:03 PM

Theo again -- I remember now but don't recall how I forgot so easily. It was necessary to cut off the terminal connectors from the trailer line because they would not fit as a group through the back end of the 7-way RV connector. Guess I could have left one or two...

BTW you only need 6 connectors because the 7th center-post wire was held by a screw (at least in the one I bought from rjays.com).