Brake Controller Install on 2002 Toyota Tundra: Comparing Time Delay and Proportional Controllers

Question

Question:

Hello, I have a 2002 Toyota Tundra Limited. It currently only has wiring for a 4 pin hook-up. Could you tell me if it is as simple as buying a t connector for a 7 pin and plugging it in, or if it would take me splicing wirer. Also, what is the difference between a Timed Actuated controller and a proportional controller? Which type would you recommend for towing a camper? Thanks!

asked by: Brad

0

Expert Reply:

To add a 7-Way trailer connector at the rear of your 2002 Toyota Tundra you will need to install a 4 and 7 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. This will require route and splicing some wires. What you will do is plug your existing 4-Way into the back of the ETBC7. You would then connect the loose yellow (or purple) wire to a reverse light wire. The white wire is grounded to the frame. The black and blue wires get attached to the included duplex cable and route under the truck, and up through the engine compartment. The black power wire will attach to the positive battery terminal via a 40 amp circuit breaker. The blue wire (now white) gets routed through the firewall, into the cab, and attaches to the blue wire on the back of the brake controller.

The remaining 3 wires on the brake controller will also have to be hardwired. The white one will get route through the firewall and attaches to the negative battery terminal. The black wire will also be routed through the firewall and attach to the positive battery terminal via a 20- or 30-amp circuit breaker per the brake controller instructions. The red wire will attach to the stop light wire on the brake switch located above the brake pedal. You will need a circuit tester like # PTW2993 to locate the correct wire. You need the one that carries a signal ONLY when the brake pedal is pressed. There should not be a signal at any other time.

Time Delayed brake controllers apply power to the trailer brakes after a pre-determined amount of time after you step on the vehicle brakes. This setting is set by you depending on the weight of the trailer. It will apply the same amount of output for light or heavy braking. These brake controllers can be mounted at any angle.

Proportional brake controllers apply braking to the trailer in proportion to how much braking the towing vehicle is doing. If you brake lightly, it brakes lightly. If you brake hard, it brakes hard. There is a motion sensing device inside that senses the amount of braking being applied and applies power to match it. These brake controllers have to be mounted in the direction of travel. This means they cannot be tilted to one side or slightly sideways or too far nose up or down. The perimeters are included in the instruction sheets.

I recommend a proportional controller because they offer the smoothest and quickest braking which is important for safety, and it will reduce wear of both the tow vehicle and trailers brakes. The Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Brake Controller, # 90885, that you have referenced is a good choice and is what I would recommend towing your camper. I have included a link to the installation details below.

I have also included a link to a video on the installation of an ETBC7 wiring harness, an FAQ on brake controllers, and an FAQ on installing a brake controller from scratch. It may seem like a daunting task but if you have experience with automotive and/or electrical projects, it will not be very difficult at all.