Brake Controller Recommendation and Install Wiring for 2005 Ford F-150

Question:

I am looking for a brake controller for my 2005 F150. Your website makes me choose between a 4 way or 7 way. How do I know which one I need. Thanks,

asked by: Jason M

Expert Reply:

You have to look at the rear of your 2005 Ford F-150 to know which trailer connector you have. Either a 7 way that looks like a round socket with wiring coming out of the back or a flat 4-way connector that only has 4 wires.

For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part # 90885. This is our best selling brake controller because of how well it works and how easy it is to setup. This is a proportional brake controller that senses the amount of braking the tow vehicle is applying and applies a proportionate amount to the trailer brakes.

If you have a 7-way all you need at this point is the part # 3035-P and you'll be set.

If you only have a 4-way you will also need the part # 37185 to convert it to a 7-way and install the controller.

After finding an appropriate mounting location for the 7-way adapter, follow the factory 4-way connector forward until you find the factory plug on the frame rail (see photo). You will see more wires entering the factory connector on the frame rail than exiting it toward the 4-way connector. The black wire from the 7-way adapter # 37185, will splice into the orange wire for 12 volt power and the blue wire will splice into the blue wire for the electric brake output power from the brake controller. I recommend testing the wires with a circuit tester like part # PTW2993 before any splicing to ensure you have the correct wires.

I have also attached a brake controller installation video on a 2004 Ford F-150 for you to check out.