How To Pull A Trailer With Brakes Using A 2017 Ford Explorer Without Tow Package

Question:

Hello I am needing some help with some installation. We have a 2017 Ford Explorer with no tow package. We are going to be getting a trailer that will come equipped with lights and breaks. Can you please direct me with suggestions as to what wiring we will need to properly be able to connect our trailer to Explorer. Thank you!

asked by: Victoria

Expert Reply:

If you do not already have a trailer hitch receiver on your 2017 Ford Explorer, I would go with the Draw-Tite # 76034. This is 2" and has a maximum towing capacity of 4,500lbs and maximum tongue weight of 675lbs.

For the trailer wiring, you will first need to install a 4 way kit and then convert it to 7 way using # ETBC7. I recommend the 4 way kit # C56172. This plugs directly into your factory connector which should be in the rear of the vehicle on the passenger side. I am attaching a photo of this connector.

You can then convert it to 7 way using the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This will plug into the 4 way kit mentioned above. You will need to connect the white wire to bare metal for a ground, and run the black wire up to the positive terminal on the battery. The blue wire will connect to the brake controller's blue wire.

For a brake controller, I recommend the Brake EVN # TK63VR with Harness # 20127. The blue wire attaches to the blue wire from the 7 way kit, the white wire will go to the negative terminal on the battery, the black wire will go to the positive terminal on the battery. You will need to test the brake pedal wiring under the dash to find the wire that gets power ONLY when brakes are applied by using the included circuit tester. This wire will connect to the brake controller's red wire.

I have attached demonstration videos for this process.