1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the ACPS-ORIS 038-898 Towing Hitch Wiring Kit. This kit is designed to provide electrical connections for a trailer or caravan when used with a compatible towing hitch. It is specifically engineered for certain Ford Transit Custom and Ford Tourneo Custom models. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning installation to ensure proper function and safety.
2. Safety Information
- Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before starting any electrical work.
- Ensure all connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
- Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific electrical system information.
- Installation should ideally be performed by a qualified technician.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection.
- After installation, test all trailer lighting functions (indicators, brake lights, tail lights, reverse light, fog light) before towing.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components listed below are present in your package:
Image 1: Overview of the ACPS-ORIS 038-898 Towing Hitch Wiring Kit components. The image displays a complete wiring harness with a 13-pin socket, a control module, various connectors, screws, washers, adhesive pads, and cable ties, all neatly arranged on a white background.
- 1x Main Wiring Harness with 13-pin Socket
- 1x Control Module (E-set)
- Various Connectors and Terminals
- Mounting Hardware (screws, washers)
- Adhesive Pads
- Cable Ties
- Socket Cover and Gasket
4. Installation Instructions
This wiring kit is designed for left-hand drive vehicles and is compatible with Ford Transit Custom V362 Box Truck (FY, FZ), Ford Tourneo Custom V362 Bus (F3), and Ford Transit Custom V362 Bus (F3) models. It supports vehicles with and without a check control system and includes features like parking aid switch-off and rear fog light shutdown.
4.1. Preparation
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery.
- Gather all necessary tools (e.g., screwdrivers, wire strippers, multimeter).
- Familiarize yourself with the vehicle's rear wiring access points, typically behind the tail lights or within the boot/cargo area.
4.2. Wiring Harness Connection
- Locate the vehicle's original connector points for the towing hitch preparation. This kit utilizes original connector connectors for a seamless fit.
- Connect the main wiring harness to the vehicle's existing wiring. Ensure all connections are firm and correctly seated.
- Identify and connect the continuous plus wire as per the vehicle's wiring diagram. This provides constant power to the trailer for functions like charging or interior lights.
- Mount the control module (E-set) in a secure, dry location within the vehicle, away from moving parts or excessive heat. Use the provided adhesive pads or mounting hardware.
- Route the 13-pin socket cable to the exterior of the vehicle, typically near the towing hitch. Ensure the cable is protected from sharp edges and heat.
- Attach the 13-pin socket to the designated mounting point on the towing hitch. Secure it using the provided screws and ensure the gasket provides a weather-tight seal.
4.3. Post-Installation Steps
- Secure all loose wiring with the provided cable ties to prevent chafing or damage.
- Reconnect the vehicle's battery.
- Activation Required: For proper functionality, the vehicle's onboard computer system may require activation of the towing hitch wiring kit. This typically involves using diagnostic software at a qualified service center. This step is crucial for features like check control system integration, parking aid switch-off, and rear fog light shutdown.
- Test all trailer lighting functions with a suitable trailer or trailer light tester. Verify indicators, brake lights, tail lights, reverse light, and rear fog light operate correctly.
5. Operation
Once installed and activated, the ACPS-ORIS 038-898 Towing Hitch Wiring Kit automatically manages the electrical connection to your trailer. When a trailer is connected to the 13-pin socket:
- The vehicle's lighting system will extend to the trailer lights.
- The parking aid system may automatically deactivate to prevent false alarms when reversing with a trailer.
- The vehicle's rear fog light will typically deactivate when a trailer is connected and its fog light is active, to prevent glare.
- Continuous power will be supplied to the trailer for auxiliary functions, if wired correctly.
Always ensure the trailer plug is fully inserted and locked into the 13-pin socket before driving.
6. Maintenance
The ACPS-ORIS 038-898 Towing Hitch Wiring Kit requires minimal maintenance. Regular checks are recommended:
- Periodically inspect the 13-pin socket for dirt, corrosion, or damage. Clean with a suitable electrical contact cleaner if necessary.
- Check the wiring harness for any signs of wear, chafing, or loose connections. Secure any loose cables with cable ties.
- Ensure the socket cover is properly closed when not in use to protect the contacts from elements.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trailer lights not working | Loose connection, blown fuse, incorrect activation, faulty trailer bulb. | Check all connections, inspect vehicle and trailer fuses, ensure kit activation, test trailer bulbs. |
| Parking aid not deactivating | Kit not activated, incorrect wiring, vehicle specific issue. | Verify kit activation by a service center. Consult vehicle manual or technician. |
| Rear fog light issue | Kit not activated, wiring error, trailer fog light fault. | Ensure kit activation. Check wiring for rear fog light shutdown feature. Test trailer fog light. |
| No continuous power to trailer | Continuous plus wire not connected, fuse blown, vehicle not supplying power. | Check continuous plus wire connection and fuse. Verify vehicle's power supply. |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, it is recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician.
8. Specifications
- Model Number: 038-898
- Brand: ACPS-ORIS
- Socket Type: 13-pin
- Vehicle Compatibility: For Ford Transit Custom V362 Box Truck (FY, FZ), Ford Tourneo Custom V362 Bus (F3), Ford Transit Custom V362 Bus (F3)
- Features: For vehicles with/without check control system, with parking aid switch-off, E-set with original connector connectors, for vehicles with AHK preparation, with rear fog light shutdown, wiring harness contains continuous plus, with LED.
- Drive Type: For left-hand drive vehicles
- Approximate Assembly Time: 1 hour (excluding activation)
- Item Weight: 1.6 kg
- Product Dimensions: 32.6 x 21.5 x 10.4 cm
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the ACPS-ORIS official website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.