Parts Needed to Prepare 2002 Mitsubishi Montero Sport for Towing Trailer with Electric Brakes

Question:

What parts do I need to wire up a 2002 Mitsubishi Montero sport so that I can tow a trailer with electric brakes? This does not have a tow package. It is a 7 pin connector on the trailer. Class 3 hitch.

asked by: Scott F

Helpful Expert Reply:

In order to install a trailer brake controller like the excellent Prodigy P3 # 90195 in your 2002 Mitsubishi Montero Sport you will need an installation kit # ETBC7 and if you don't already have a 4-pole flat wiring harness on the Montero, one of those as well.

If you need a 4-pole harness you can use kit # 119178KIT from TowReady; I recommend this kit because it includes the circuit tester required for identifying the wire functions on the Montero. I have linked for you a video showing harness installation. Although this is a different vehicle the process will be the same.

Once you have the 4-pole installed you will use the components in the # ETBC7 kit to make all other required connections. The kit has everything you need; no other parts are required.

I have linked for you both an article and a video on the kit to show you the entire installation process. Also included is an article that will give you great background on controllers to enable you to choose the correct proportional unit for your towing needs. The Prodigy P3 referenced above is one of the best units on the market and is highly rated by our customers for its easy set-up and reliability.

Towing also requires a Class III ball mount, hitch ball and a pin and clip to hold the ball mount in your hitch. Ball mounts should be chosen based on the heights of the vehicle and trailer. You want to choose a ball mount that will allow the trailer to be level when it is hitched. The linked article explains the simple process for determining the ball mount with the right rise or drop for level towing. The linked page will show you all Class III ball mounts, such as # 2753 which has 4-inches of drop.

You'll also choose a hitch ball of the size to match your trailer's coupler, such as 1-7/8-inch ball # 19260 or 2-inch ball # 63845. For a pin and clip you can use # PC3.

Finally, you might want to refer to the linked article on towing (and to your owner's manual) to ensure you are prepared for safe towing.