Does the 12 Volt Black Power Wire Need to be Run with the Curt Echo If There Is No Trailer Battery

Question:

I have a 2018 Highlander trying to tow a 19ft pop up camper. I have the factory installed hitch and 4 pin harness. Im thinking of ordering the ETBC7 and the Curt Echo. I know I cap the brake controller wire, but what about the 12 volt wire? Do I have to run it to the car battery? If I dont have any desire to charge the aux battery on the front of my camper, does it serve another purpose? Does the Echo require it to run?

asked by: Michael

Expert Reply:

For starters, if you will be using the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller part # C51180 then I recommend the 7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation part # ETBC7L instead of the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller part # ETBC7 as you can save some cash this way. The Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller has extra wires that you don't need.

In regards to the black 12 volt power wire, this will need to be run if using the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller because that is how the unit receives power. If you are using a different brake controller like the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller part # 90195 but will not be charging any battery on the trailer or using the 12 volt accessory then the black 12 volt power wire will not need to be run but this one will require the blue brake output wire instead.

Therefore, you can either choose to run the 12 volt black power wire to the battery for the Curt Echo Mobile Trailer Brake Controller or the blue brake output wire into the cab for the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller. I will say the 12 volt black power wire will be an easier option than the blue brake output wire still as you also have to make connections under the vehicle's dash for the brake controller as well.

expert reply by: Conner L