Forum Discussion

bjkb1f's avatar
bjkb1f
Explorer
Sep 15, 2018

Installing/wiring for trailer and brake controller

Hi all, I’m new here so this may be a topic that has been covered but I can’t find a thread in it.

I have a 2014 Explorer Sport with an aftermarket tow package that has a four way flat connector. We’re buying a travel trailer and I need to install a brake controller and switch to a 7-pin trailer connection.

Seems like installing and connecting the brake controller under the dash will be a piece of cake. What I’m not sure of is what I need to do next.

How do I convert the four flat to a seven pin? Do I have to run wires from the battery/brake controller to the hitch? Or does plugging the controller into the plug beneath the dash tie it into the vehicle and I need another wiring harness/adapter for the rear?

Thanks all!

8 Replies

  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Sep 18, 2018
    when I was wiring up my tacoma I came close to buying a unit that was wireless, plug in under dash and put the receiving unit on the trailer. if your TV isn't set up for plug and play, that is the way I would go. and you can easily move unit between different trailers.
    bumpy
  • Ron3rd's avatar
    Ron3rd
    Explorer III
    Sep 17, 2018
    Get a Tekonsha controller and their pigtail adapter and the controller install is plug and play as noted above. The Tekonsha Prodigy controller is a good choice
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Sep 15, 2018
    the hard part on my tacoma was finding/getting to the fitting behind the kick panel on the driver's side. really buried and hidden with mesh.
    bumpy
  • dockmasterdave's avatar
    dockmasterdave
    Explorer
    Sep 15, 2018
    I did this on a 2010 F150. The wiring should already be there to the back of the truck. You add a harness for the 7 pin to the factory harness (plugs in ), get the harness connector for under the dash for the P3 (plugs in), add an oil cooler for the transmission, and mount a hitch to the frame, unless your bumper is rated for what you intend to tow.
    You probably also need to add a couple fuses in the block under the hood to allow trailer battery charging etc.
    I agree, e trailer is the best for trailering parts and they have videos for almost everything they sell.
  • bjkb1f's avatar
    bjkb1f
    Explorer
    Sep 15, 2018
    Battery to controller, battery to rear hitch or both?

    Thank you for the info and link
  • Home_Skillet's avatar
    Home_Skillet
    Explorer II
    Sep 15, 2018
    The vehicle should be prewired for the brake controller.
    The 7 pin harness can be purchased here..
    You will have to run some wires to the battery.

    7 pin connector

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,157 PostsLatest Activity: Aug 19, 2025