Trailer Hitch Fit and Brake Controller for 2016 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Hard Rock Edition

Question:

I searched and found your previous advice that a Curt 9883544 2 inch receiver should fitinch the Jeeps equipped with the Hard Rock style all steel bumper. However, after watching the installation video and looking under my newly acquired 2016 Hard Rock, it does not appear to have any space between the rear frame cross member and the front of the bumper, so there is no space for the ends of the hitch bolts or nuts. Have you gotten any feedback since your previous recommendation, and/or would you care to elaborate on this recommendation based on any info that may have come to light since I would like to install a receiver hitch. In the attached pic my hand is on the top of the bumper and you can clearly see a lack of space between it and the cross member. Also, the way I read the original posters request was that he also wanted a wiring recommendation for his application, whereas you assumed he meant he already had wiring. I am looking for 7-pin wiring and brake controller. I dont know how to tell if my Jeep has an OEM tow package or not.

asked by: Kevin C

Expert Reply:

That's a good question and the latest information we have is that there is a trailer hitch that fits your 2016 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Hard Rock, the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver # DT78MR. As you can see by the cut out of the linked installation instructions, it may be that you have a spacer plate between the cross member and your bumper which needs to be removed so you will want to check for that and if you do have that this hitch will work great.

In regards to a brake controller, you would know if you have the tow package because you would have a factory trailer connector, a 7-way, on your Jeep.

It sounds like you do not have this so to add a brake controller you will need to start by adding a 4-way, the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # 118416. You will also need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7, which will give you a 7-way connector, circuit breakers and the rest of the hardware needed to install a brake controller. I have added links to video installs of the harnesses for you to check out.

For a brake controller I highly recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite Trailer Brake Controller # RED44FR because it is both highly effective at giving you smooth braking and also keeps a bulky unit out of the cab of your Wrangler.

The Redarc uses a small control knob you can mount wherever is convenient; the knob not only keeps the main unit out of sight, but also makes the controller very easy to use. The Tow Pro brake controller is proportional, meaning it responds to your Jeep's deceleration for responsive braking.

I have added a link to a review and install of this controller for you to check out