Dumb trailer hitch question...

[JakiChan]

So I've been doing some reading about towing and whatnot for my anticipated 2012 and there's something I don't get - folks talk about installing wiring harnesses and whatnot and I even saw this document with install instructions...but the Honda website makes it sound like the 2012 at least is all ready to go. What do I need to install if I wanted to tow something and use the circuits for the trailer?

[Elkhunter]

Looks like you were looking at the instructions for an '06. Yours should be more like http://www.handa-accessories.com/rid.../09harness.pdf

(unless something changed between the '09 and the '12)

[JakiChan]

But isn't that already done on the RTL? The website says: "Trailer harness (RTS and RTL; RT is pre-wired for a trailer harness) "

[Elkhunter]

Went back and looked at the Honda site. It DEFINATELY says for the RTL and RTS models "trailer harness included" for the 2012

[JakiChan]

Originally Posted by Elkhunter

Went back and looked at the Honda site. It DEFINATELY says for the RTL and RTS models "trailer harness included" for the 2012

Is that new for 2012? Does that mean that I should be ready to rock and I just need the ball part?

[zepada]

I think you might be talking about two different items. Yes, the RTL comes with the hitch and the wiring for lights, just buy the ball and you are ready to go. What is included but not installed is the brake harness that must be installed if you chose/require a trailer with brakes. At least this is my understanding.

[speedlever]

From 2009 and on, the RTS/RTL models come fully tow ready with the hitch and wiring factory installed. Only the RT trim level has a hitch without the complete wiring harness, just the pre-wiring.

Edit: I believe the Sport model comes equipped the same as the RT trim level in regards to the hitch wiring... prewiring only, not the full harness.

From here:
http://automobiles.honda.com/tools/b...ModelYear=2012

New for 2011, an integrated Class-III trailer hitch is standard on every Ridgeline. A trailer harness is standard on the RTS and RTL, and available on the RT. In addition to the integrated hitch, the Ridgeline comes ready to tow with a robust 5-speed automatic transmission, a standard high-capacity radiator with dual 160-watt fans, a heavy-duty power-steering fluid cooler, a high-capacity ATF cooler and maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs[1].
[1] Towing requires the addition of the Honda accessory towing kit and hitch ball. Trailer harness standard on RTS and RTL models. Premium unleaded fuel recommended when towing. Refer to the owner’s manual for additional towing information.
*******************

I can't say for sure, but I don't believe any RL comes with the brake harness assembly installed.

[Oddjob]

With my RTL 2009 I needed a converter that changed the 7 pin (round) connector to a 4 pin (flat) one. Because my trailer does not have brakes. Picked one up at U-haul for $12.
With a new vehicle purchase the trailer brake wire connector is in the glovebox. That connects under the dash to your (which ever one you decide to purchase) brake controller and then to the wiring harness on the steering column.