Equipment Needed to Install 7-way Trailer Connector on RV and 1996 Toyota 4Runner

Question:

1996 4Runner also a 1996 motorhome Both need a 7-way for my trailer. The RV has a flat 4. Im thinking part# C57674, Curt 4 way to 7 w/ the breaker. The 4Runner has nothing. I thought maybe the custom-wiring 4 way to make the installation easy w/ no splicing in this area, and then the same Curt 4 to 7 going onto the RV. Thoughts? Is there a better way for me to do this? Thanks!

asked by: Jared

Expert Reply:

The Curt # C57674 you mentioned would be a fine choice. For the RV, you'd plug in the C57674 adapter to the existing 4 pole, which would provide lighting for the trailer. If the trailer doesn't have brakes, your install would be complete. If the trailer has brakes, you'd need to install a brake controller using a # 5506 brake controller install kit. The kit includes 25 feet of wire, which wouldn't be enough for an RV. Extra wire is sold by the foot as part # 10-2-1.

For the 4 runner, you'd first need to install the # 118341 taillight converter, then the # C57674, and proceed from there as described above.

If you need a brake controller, I'd recommend going with a proportional controller like the Tekonsha Prodigy, part # 90885. A proportional controller can sense how quickly the tow vehicle is braking, and will send the correct amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so the vehicle and trailer stop at the same rate. The older time delayed controllers, like your Commander will always send the same amount of voltage to the trailer brakes (according to how you've adjusted it) whether you've tapped on the pedal or having a full out panic stop. A proportional controller provides safer, more predictable braking. If you wanted to swap the controller back and forth between the two vehicles, you'd need an extra quick disconnect pigtail # 20127 and mounting pocket # 7686.

I've linked to some FAQ articles that you should find helpful.