Recommended 7-Way and Brake Controller for a 2012 Ford Escape XLT V6 with Factory Tow Package
Question:
I have the factory towing package installed with a 4pin plug. Id like to convert this to a 7pin to make use of the trailer brakes and battery charging. Is there additional wiring necessary or can I connect a different 7pin plug to the existing 10pin factory wiring connector shown in picture? Would I also need a brake controller?
asked by: Tony
Expert Reply:
I have a solution for you but you will not want to unplug your factory 4-way from that 10 prong plug connection on your 2012 Ford Escape XLT V6.
Instead if you get the # ETBC7 kit, it will adapt your 4-way into a 7-way and still have the ability to use the 4-way connection at the back of the vehicle. I wish there was a 7-way for your factory plug but the # ETBC7 is the best route to go for you. The # ETBC7 will include all the items you need to adapt your 4-way to 7-way. I have linked an installation video of the # ETBC7 kit on a similar vehicle to your to better show you how this will install.
When towing a trailer with brakes, you will need a brake controller. The wiring of the 7-way trailer connector is what provides the brake signal versus the 4-way which does not.
For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha P3 # 90195, because of its easy user interface. The P3 is a proportional brake controller which means it senses how the tow vehicle is slowing or stopping and applies the trailer's brakes with the same intensity. It also has a full display screen instead of codes that need deciphering. The Tekonsha P2 # 90885 is like the P3's little brother, it has all the great qualities but doesn't have the display of the P3.
For your Escape you will not need another wiring adapter to plug in either the P2 or P3 because the # ETBC7 will directly splice into those connections for you. The video will also reflect this process with the P2 # 90885.
I have linked all the above mentioned products to this page for your convenience.
Products Referenced in This Question
Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LCD Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
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