Recommended 7-Way Connector And Trailer Brake Controller For 2018 Ford Explorer Without Tow Package
Question:
I am trying to self install a 7 pin trailer plug, and a brake controller on my 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. The vehicle DID NOT come with factory tow package. I am unsure what all parts I would need to accomplish this. I do like the hidden modules like the Redarc and Curt products. Your help would be highly appreciates.
asked by: Casey B
Expert Reply:
I would be happy to recommend everything you will need to add a 7-way connector and trailer brake controller to your 2018 Ford Explorer Limited without the factory tow package.
Starting with the 7-way connector I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector # C56306 which will plug into the factory trailer connector ports underneath the bumper on the passenger side of the vehicle.
When we did this install on a similar 2017 Ford Explorer we used the Mounting Bracket for 7-Way # 18138 to mount the 7-way connector to the trailer hitch receiver. If your trailer hitch receiver does not have the provision for the bracket you will also need the No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket # 18140.
Moving on to the trailer brake controller I recommend the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 due to it plug directly into the 7-way connector which will not require you to drill any holes inside of your vehicle to mount the trailer brake controller, and since it can be removed and used in any vehicle with a functioning 7-way connector if needed.
If you do not already have a trailer hitch receiver I recommend taking a look at the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98867.
I included videos for each of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.
Products Referenced in This Question
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 >
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 >
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 400 lbs TW
- 4000 lbs GTW
- 5000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 500 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- No Converter
- Custom Fit
- 7 Round - Blade
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Brakes for a 2007 Pace Trailer w/ 15 Inch Rims
- Q&A: Trailer Wiring Harness for 2015 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility
- Q&A: 2016 Ford Explorer Trailer Hitch and Wiring Harness Recommendations
- Q&A: Brake Controller and Wiring Harness for a 2022 Toyota Highlander
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: How to Add a 7-Way Connector for a 2023 Ford Bronco w/out the Factory Towing Package
- Q&A: How to Correctly Position Ramp Door Spring for Installation
- Q&A: Adapter Module for Brake-Rite Electric over Hydraulic Trailer Brake Actuator
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Article: 2 Steps for Finding the Right Weight Distribution Hitch Size
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Flat Towing Package for 1998-2006 Jeep Wrangler