Hopkins Endurance Connector

[R_Lefebvre]

Just wanted to bring this to people's attention. Found one of these things at the store and so I picked it up for use in the new rear bumper I'm building for my truck. I used a standard 7 pin connector before, but it gets filled up with crud and corrodes, etc. These ones have a seal under the lid, not sure how good it works yet, but it's better than nothing. It also feels more rugged than a standard item. The style on these is nice too. They aren't even very expensive. Just wanted people to know about them.

http://www.farmandfleet.com/products/576521-endurance_7_rv_blade_vehicle_end.html

 

['05TJLWBRUBY]

Looks like great minds think alike! I got the same one for my trailer build, along with the matching male end. It is a nice unit indeed and looks like it should work very well. Interested to see how it holds up. Here's the specs on it for those interested, and a few other pics as well at the links on etrailers site:

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-TEC~HM48480.htm

Here is the matching male end coupler:

http://www.etrailer.com/pc-TEC~HM48500.htm

edit-I just noticed it's a few dollars cheaper here as well. I bought a few things from these guys including these plugs, a bunch of wiring stuff and my Prodigy brake controller for the trailer. The Prodigy is regularly around $150-$160 elsewhere, but they had it for $98 which is the cheapest I've found-just an FYI. Responded quick to email also. I messed up when I ordered and forgot I actually need TWO of the male ends for what I'm doing so I will be ordering a second male plug like the one linked above to go with my setup-it will be from these guys as well. Still debating on if I want to swap out my current connector for a second Endurance model as I really like the overall quality of this one. It appears very well built compared to the others I've seen and used. For the price, I haven't seen or used one that compares to this-yet. Again, will see how it actually works once I get it installed and use it long-term, but that will be a while...

Best of Luck,

Mike

 

[R_Lefebvre]

I didn't get the male end yet, as I assume the one I already have is going to fit. I may upgrade in the future though.

 

[brentbba]

Results please! I'd noticed these about a month ago. Need to replace the truck side due to corrosion and was going to rewire the M101 as well. The do 'look' more rugged and sealed than the regular ones everyone has.

 

[ntsqd]

I liked the socket version that has the 4/5 pin flat connector socket under the 7 pin round socket.

 

[R_Lefebvre]

Yeah, I saw those online after I bought this one. I've seen the non-ruggedized versions with both connectors before. It's a neat idea, but seems like they're more fiddly and bulky. I have a 7 to 4 adaptor already that's a better solution for me for the odd time I need a 4 pin.

 

[DAMAGE_ctrl]

Installed

I run this plug, and it has been Great. My only advise is to mount it in the bumper. I did the quick install, and have already hit it off road. I placed it in what I thought was a safe place next to my reciever.

 

[ntsqd]

I usually place trailer light sockets pointing down. Put them up high enough that the plug isn't hanging below the bottom of the bumper. Some 3M #23 tape keeps water out of the vehicle wiring hole.