Parts Needed to Install an Electric Trailer Brake Controller on a 2000 Dodge Durango

Question:

I have a 2000 Dodge Durango. I had a tekonsha Voyager brake setup installed in 2000 and it came with a wiring pack that went behind the drivers tail light. I started to smoke about 5 years ago, So I took it out. I need to get another one for the wiring ahrness will work for the trailer Im towing but have no idea what kind of wiring pack it was. The guy that installed it is out of bizz so I cant ask him. Can you help me out? What was the little wiring pack that was behind my tail light? Thanx.

asked by: Rick G

Expert Reply:

The unit that was placed behind the tail light was most likely some kind of converter used to convert the vehicle tail light signals into the type of signal used by trailers. Since it malfunctioned, it would be best to start over with a new one designed specifically for your 2000 Dodge Durango.

You most likely also had a 7-Way trailer connector installed at the same time, so if that is the case, you would just need Tow Ready Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring, # 118334. This harness alone will not be enough to engage the trailer brakes. What you will need to do is cut off the 4-Way connector and wire in the wires into the back of the 7-Way.

If looking at the back of the 7-Way, the white wire will attach to the pin in the 5 oclock position. The brown wire will attach to the pin in the 1 oclock position. The green wire will attach in the 9 oclock position. And the yellow wire will attach in the 3 oclock position. The remaining wires coming from the 7-Way should still be attached to the vehicle battery, brake controller, and reverse light circuit (if applicable).

If you do not want to cut the plug off of the 4-Way, you could install a new 7-Way, # 37185. After installing the 4-Way, you would plug it into the back of this connector. Remove the old 7-Way, and attach the wires for electric brake output (blue), 12-volt power (black), reverse lights (purpler or yellow), and ground the white wire to the frame.

If you want a completely new set up, you would use the 118334 harness and a 4 and 7 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7, which comes with everything you will need to install a 7-Way and the wiring for a brake controller. I have included links to some helpful FAQ articles and a video showing installation of an ETBC7.