Parts Needed to Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1987 Dodge Ram 350 Full Size Van

Question:

where to look for wires on the 1987 dodge ram 350 van

asked by: Roger

Expert Reply:

The 1987 Dodge full size vans do not have wiring under the dash to wire in a brake controller. You will need to hardwire in the controller using an installation kit. There are different kits depending on whether or not the vehicle has a trailer connector or not.

If your van has a 4-Way trailer wiring harness, you will need to use the 4 and 7 way installation kit # ETBC7. It comes with the 7-Way, wiring, and accessories to wire in the brake controller. If you do not have any type of trailer connector, you will first need to install a 4-Way, # 18252, and then install the ETBC7. I have included some links that explain the ETBC7 installation.

If the van already has a 7-Way then you will need a different installation kit # 5506. You can follow the ETBC7 FAQ for wiring in the brake controller if using either of these kits but connecting to the 7-Way will be a little different. If the 7-Way already has a wire attached to back in the 7:00 position you can follow it as far forward on the van as possible. Then attach the blue brake controller wire by routing it through the firewall, under the van, and to that wire from the 7-Way.

expert reply by: Michael H