Trailer Connector and Brake Controller Recommendation and Install on 2008 Ford E350 Van

Question:

I just installed a Curt class IV hitch on a 2008 Ford E350 van. It has no tow package or trailer lights. What do I need to hook up lights and brake controller for towing a camper? Thanks.

asked by: Alan F

Expert Reply:

I'd be happy to give you a hand with that.

To begin with, you'll need to get access to the van's taillight circuits for the trailer lights. You'd do that using a taillight converter like # 118551. Not only will this harness allow you to tap into the taillight circuits without cutting or splicing, but it will also offer circuit protection that will isolate the van's wiring from any short circuits that could occur in the trailer's wiring, which is something that the Curt # C56020 harness you'd looked at would not do. This is important, as without that circuit protection, a short in the trailer wiring could potentially cause damage to the electrical system on your van.

Once that's in place, you'd install a brake controller using our # ETBC7 install kit. The kit includes an adapter that converts the 4 pole provided by the # 118551 to a 7-way connector, as well as all the wire, hardware and circuit breakers you'll need.

For a brake controller, I'd recommend a proportional controller like the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160. A proportional controller will sense the intensity with which the brakes are being applied, and send the appropriate amount of voltage to the trailer brakes so the trailer applies the brakes at the same rate as the tow vehicle for safe, effective and predictable braking.

I'll link you to an install video that will walk you through the install process. The video shows a different controller being used, but the procedure for the controller I recommended will be identical.