Should 12 Volt Power Circuit of 7-Way for Curt Echo be Keyed Power Source

Question:

Since I am using the Curt wireless brake controller, I just need to run a 40 amp fused circuit from the battery which is conveniently located in the rear cargo area to the wiring harness. Id like to use the tow ready battery solenoid so the 12 volt circuit to the harness is only active when the car is on. Might you know of a switched power source in the rear cargo area that I could use to activate the solenoid in order to avoid running wiring all the way to the engine compartment? Thanks in advance!

asked by: MATTHEW C

Expert Reply:

Finding a keyed power source at the rear of a vehicle can be challenging but it comes down considering what accessories are at the rear of the vehicle which might use that type of power. Examples are power antennas, stereo amps, etc. So it might just be easier to run a power wire up to the IGN fuse for the center pin of the # PK5231201 or even to just have the 12 volt accessory circuit of the 7-way active all the time as that's the most common way the circuit is wired.

The Curt Echo # C51180 isn't going to really draw enough amperage to drain a battery when left parked for a day or so but if you were to park long term you'd most likely remove the controller anyway since it's somewhat of a theft risk as it just plugs into the trailer connector.

expert reply by: Jameson C