Will Curt Echo Work With 4-Pole Trailer Connector that Uses Adapter to Plug to Vehicle 7-Way

Question:

My trailer has a 4 post connector for trailer lights. I already have an adapter so I can plug this into a 7 pin adapter on my car. Will it still work if the trailer adapts to a 7 pin, and then that adapter plugs into this Curt Controller? The Curt Controller would be plugged directly into the Factory 7 pin receiver.

asked by: Jamo

Expert Reply:

Since your trailer has a 4-pole connector, the only circuits present are for your trailer's left turn, right turn, tail/maker and ground. The Curt Echo # C51180 is a trailer brake controller, so in order for it to function, the trailer must have electric brakes and the additional wiring to support them.

To upgrade your trailer's existing 4-pole connector, I recommend the Trailer Wiring 7-Way Upgrade Kit w/ Junction Box # HS381-9000. This allows you to easily connect the wires from the included 7-way connector to your existing wiring. If your trailer is equipped with electric brake assemblies, you'll just run wire # 10-1-1 to them from the junction box as well. Please note electric brakes require the use of a breakaway kit, so if you don't already have one installed on the trailer, I recommend the Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger # 20400.

If your trailer isn't equipped with brakes, you're likely looking at replacing your idler hubs with drums, and then adding the electric brakes along with a brake mounting flange (if not already present).

At the bottom of this page, I've attached a help article that goes into all the details of adding electric brakes to a trailer, which I highly recommend checking out. If you need clarification or further assistance, just let me know.