Recommended Equipment to Tow a Trailer with Brakes with a 2006 Mazda Tribute V6
Question:
Hello I have a 2006 Mazda Tribute with a v6 engine. It does not have a trailer hitch or any wiring as it is now. I am buying a 5x10 enclosed trailer to convert to a mini RV. The trailer comes with electric breaks and a 7 pin plug for electricity. Could you give me a list of what I would need to have my vehicle trailer ready. Thank You,
asked by: Craig
Expert Reply:
To get your 2006 Mazda Tribute V6 ready to tow your mini RV you'll need a trailer hitch, wiring for both the trailer lights and brake system (with a brake controller), and most likely a weight distribution system. From what I could find in the owner's manual it looks like your vehicle has a max trailer weight rating of 3,500 lbs but you'll want to confirm that in your copy of the owner's manual.
Below is a list of the parts that I recommend for towing with your Tribute:
Trailer Hitch - Draw-Tite # 75751
Wiring for Lights - T-One # 118426
Wiring for Brakes - Upgrade Kit # ETBC7L (use bracket # 18140 to mount)
Brake Controller - Curt Echo # C51180
Weight Distribution - Reese Strait-Line # RP66082 (2" # A-90 or 2-5/16" # 19286 hitch ball is required as well)
The Draw-Tite hitch and T-One wiring combination are very reliable and top competitors when it comes to everyday towing. The upgrade kit for wiring is something we put together specifically for the Curt Echo which is unique controller that plugs straight into the 7-Way socket and you make adjustments right from your Apple/Android. The Echo is small enough that you can simply store it in your glove box when not in use.
Weight distribution systems are used to help ensure that your towing setup is level and also to cut down on sway that is the result of crosswinds and bigger vehicles passing by on the highway. The Strait-Line is one of the best options on the market as it works to fight sway before it starts instead of correcting it after the fact.
I am attaching some installation and review videos as well as some helpful articles that you can check out on towing.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket - Short
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Wiring
- Mounting Hardware
- Brackets
- 4 Flat
- 5 Flat
- 4 Round
- 5 Round
- Tow Ready
more information >
2-5/16" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-3/4" Long Shank - Chrome - 12,000 lbs
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2-5/16 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-3/4 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 12000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- Draw-Tite
more information >
2" Hitch Ball - 1-1/4" Diameter x 2-5/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 10,000
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Trailer Hitch Ball
- Standard Ball
- Chrome-Plated Steel
- 2 Inch Diameter Ball
- 2-5/8 Inch Shank Length
- 1-1/4 Inch Diameter Shank
- 10000 lbs GTW
- Class IV
- Class V
- CURT
more information >
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug Mount w/ Bluetooth App - 1 to 2 Axle - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Hidden
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- CURT
more information >
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 675 lbs TW
- 4500 lbs GTW
- 5250 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 675 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
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