Trailer Brake Controller Recommendation for 2001 Ford F-150 with Factory Tow Package
Question:
I have a 2001 Ford Supercrew with trailer package. Interested in brake controller. I will be towing a boat at 4800#. Is truck pre-wired for a controller? What controllers are recommended? Videos for install and choosing a proper controller. Thanks
asked by: Roger P
Expert Reply:
If your 2001 Ford pickup has a factory-installed 7-way trailer connector at the rear then it should also have a quick-connect port under the dash for easy installation of a trailer brake controller. In this case you'll use a wiring adapter such as # 3035-P if you happen to choose a Tekonsha brand controller.
Brake controllers come in two basic varieties: time-delayed and proportional. In certain specific circumstances a cost-effective time-delay type may be preferred (as in where there little room to mount the unit level) but otherwise the common wisdom is to go for a proportional type controller that actually senses your braking level and slows the trailer proportionately. Proportional brake controllers will reduce both truck and trailer brake wear and deliver smoother braking action. The linked article will give you all the background you'll need on both controller types.
I recommend the Prodigy P2 # 90885 because this controller offers an unbeatable combination of features, performance and reliability. Our customer ratings for this controller are excellent and it has proven itself to be a thoroughly-engineered product that will serve you well for the long term. If you want the best of the best then go for the P3 # 90195 which operates identically but which adds an easy-to-use display among other features.
To connect either unit to your port you'll use the harness referenced above, part # 3035-P. The linked installation video shows you the entire process, also on a 2001 F-150.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Plug-In Wiring Adapter for Electric Brake Controllers - Ford, Lincoln, Mercury
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Wiring Adapter
- Plugs into Brake Controller
- Vehicle Specific
- Tekonsha
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
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