Curt Echo Brake Controller 12 Volt 7-Way Wiring for 2017 Ford Transit T150

Question:

I have a 150, 2017 Ford Transit with the factory towing package that includes the hitch and 4pin/7pin socket. However, it does not include a brake controller. According to my Ford dealer, this particular model does not include a plug to add a brake controller, so one would have to be wired in directly. Im looking at the Curt Echo to avoid having to wire in a controller. According to your info, it looks like I would still need to add another 7pin socket wired directly to my battery, but when I posed that question to Curt, they said it should work fine with my existing 7pin socket. I dont want to have to deal with ANY additional wiring, thats why Im looking at the Curt. If things are going to have to be wired anyway, Ill probably just have a conventional unit wired in at a local RV dealer that Ive used for past vehicles. Thanks

asked by: Jim P

Expert Reply:

You are correct that even thought the 7-way is present it may not be wired for 12 volt power yet. You can test it using a circuit tester like # ALL640595 on the 1 o'clock pin of your 7-way to be sure. You can have a local auto parts store check that for you as most would provide that at no cost. If you have power at that pin, you won't need any additional wiring to use the Curt Echo # C51180.

If you do not have power at that pin, then you can use # 10-1-1 wire sold by the foot and a circuit breaker # 9510. You will connect the wire from the positive battery terminal with a ring terminal like # DW05705-1 and then to the circuit breaker in the engine bay using # 44-5310A then to that black wire on your 7-way using a butt connector like # DW05745-5. I've attached a video to assist. I've also attached an article to help with routing that power wire to keep it from heat or moving parts.

If you want to hardwire a different brake controller you can use kit # 5506 with the brake controller of your choice. I recommend using a proportional controller and have linked the page to all your options. My favorite is the Tow-Pro Elite # RED44FR because of its function and clean connection to your dash or console giving it a factory appearance.