Recommendation and Installation of 7-Way and Brake Controller on 2008 Toyota RAV4
Question:
We own 2008 V6 Toyota RAV4 and are planning to buy travel trailer that requiers 7 wires flat pins connector with break controller weight of the trailer is 3500 lb loaded. Right now we have in our vehicle 4 wires connector installed we had a smaller trailer. Could you please help us to choose the right break controller and wires that are needed to install it. The person who is selling the trailer have the tekonsha break buddy in his vehicle.
asked by: Barbara M
Expert Reply:
To install a brake controller on your 2008 Toyota RAV4 you will need to install a 7-Way connector at the rear of the vehicle. To install a 7-Way connector to a 4-Way that you already have on your vehicle you will need to use the Brake Controller 7 and 4 Way Installation Kit, part # ETBC7. This kit includes everything you will need to add a 7-Way and has the wiring to install a brake controller. I have included links to an FAQ article and video that show how to install the ETBC7 kit.
For a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2, part # 90885. It is one of our most popular controllers because it is easy to set up and easy to use. I have included a link to the installation instructions on the Prodigy brake controller. I am including a link to a FAQ page on brake controller information.
You mentioned the travel trailer weighs 3,500-lbs loaded. All of the hitches that I have available for a 2008 Toyota RAV4 have a gross towing weight capacity of 3,500-lbs. With the trailer loaded being at the maximum towing capacity you might want to look at using a weight distribution system on your vehicle, but you will need to check the hitch to make sure it is designed to be used with weight distribution. It will need to be a Class III 2-inch hitch to be rated for weight distribution. It is normally marked on the the hitch if it is capable of being used with weight distribution.
I am including a link to a FAQ page on weight distribution.
Products Referenced in This Question
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
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Miscellaneous Media
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Barbara M.
12/18/2012
Thanks a lot, that was really helpfull. Will order parts. The Weight distributin bar the sway bar will be included with the trailer, and we have the class III, 2 hitch, so everything looks great. Thanks again.