Installing/wiring for trailer and brake controller

[bjkb1f]

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!

[Bumpyroad]

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]

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

[bjkb1f]

All good to know. Thank you all very much.

[Bumpyroad]

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]

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.

[jerem0621]

It's not hard at all.

Here is what you need

Prodigy P3 Brake Controller- Etrailer Link

Etrailer Universal Brake Controller Install Kit PN ETBC7- Etrailer Link to ETCB7

Etrailer- no drill mount for the 7 way connector- Etrailer Link

Convenient Etrailer install video- Install Video- 2014 Ford Explorer

Not hard at all! Just follow the directions they give.

I have installed these many times.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

[bjkb1f]

Battery to controller, battery to rear hitch or both?

Thank you for the info and link

[Home_Skillet]

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