Brake Controller Wiring Kit for a 2000 Dodge Dakota

Question:

I am going to be towing a 5x7 thats a guess, its a really small dump trailer single axle dump trailer that has electric brakes on it. Im going to be pulling it with a 2000 dodge dakota v6 magnum 2wd pickup. I dont have the equipment yet for the brakes, but i was wondering if i could get away with just installing the 6 pole round wiring kit on my truck, but waiting till later to install the brake controller inside the truck? Im putting weeds and mulch in the trailer, not stones or anything so it wont be heavy, but maybe since i only have a v6 i should have the controller in the truck. If i hook up the truck to the trailer and attach the lights, the brakes just wont respond when im driving right. Like, having the lights connected but having no signal going to the brakes wont mess anything up will it? Thanks for your time.

asked by: Curtis

Expert Reply:

You can use part # 37175 to adapt your existing 4-pole to a 6-way, which will provide lighting functions only to your trailer. Plug the adapter into the 4-pole, and attach the white wire with the ring terminal to the tow vehicle frame or chassis.

I would urge you to go ahead do a full install including the brake controller. You might find that the small dump trailer is heavier than you think, and having the trailer brakes active would be much safer for you and other motorists around you.

If you wanted to go with the full install, use the Brake Controller Install Kit, part# ETBC6 which would install according to the instructions I have linked to. The Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160 is a lower cost controller that has many of the features found on higher-priced controllers.

I have linked you to some FAQ articles and an install video that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Heather A