Parts Needed to Install RF Brake Controller in 2006 Volvo XC70 with 4-Way

Question:

re: Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Trailer Brake Controller . I have a 2006 Volvo XC70, with a Curt class II 1-1/4inch hitch and a Curt circuit-protected wiring converter with a 4-pin flat plug. This works fine with smaller trailers. I recently purchased a trailer with electric brakes, gross weight around 2,300 pounds. The Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Trailer Brake Controller seems to be the obvious choice for brake controller, for many reasons. Some questions: The ETBC7 wiring kit is recommended. It appears that this kit includes the Hopkins 37185 7-pin adapter and socket, and a 40-amp circuit breaker. I have the other wiring, zip ties, crimp connectors, etc. so that I can just purchase the Hopkins 37185 and the 40-amp breaker. Is this correct ? For a bracket on which to mount the 7-pin socket, the Drawtite 18159 seems good. Your opinion ? Big question: Can the purple wire to the center pin of the Hopkins adapter be connected directly to the backup bulb wiring on the Volvo ? Or will this cause problems for the circuitry of the Volvo. In theory, I could purchase a 2nd Curt circuit-protected wiring converter and re-purposeinch it, to just be used for that reverse light hookup. In either case, I know how to do the wiring the question is whether the the Volvo reverse light can be hooked up directly to the 7-pin, or whether it has to go through a controller. Thank you.

asked by: Fred

Expert Reply:

Your line of thinking is spot on. To install the RF part # TK94FR in a vehicle like yours that has a 4-way you only really need the # 37185 adapter and then the breaker part # 9510 with 10 gauge wire like part # 10-1-1 (sold by the foot). With that you'd be set.

To power the reverse pin of your 7-way would only require you to run to the reverse light of your vehicle. If you wanted to circuit protect it you'd use an isolation solenoid instead ran to the vehicle battery and then use the center pin for the reverse bulb circuit. For that you'd need the part # PK5231201.

expert reply by: Jameson C