Recommended 7-Way and Wireless Brake Controller for 2019 Toyota Highlander

Question:

Hi there! I just bought a Winnebago Minnie 190RD single axle, GWVR 3,800 lbs.. I will tow it with my 2019 Toyota Highlander rated for 5,000 lbs.. My Toyota dealer is installing a hitch with a 4-pole plug. See attached photo. I need a 7 pole plug, but the dealership wont install that for me claiming liability concerns. So I have to fend for myself. What is the best right adapter to order to accommodate the 7-pole plug on my trailer? I also want to order a brake controller, and plan to use the Tekonsha Prodigy RF Wireless Trailer Brake Controller w/ Bluetooth Item # TK94FR. This controller sounds perfect, but also of course requires a 7 pole plug. Any advice you can provide on what to order and how to install it is much appreciated.

asked by: Jerry R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Tekonsha Prodigy RF brake controller, part # TK94FR would work very well.

To install the 7-way, I'd recommend using our brake controller installation kit, part # ETBC7L. The kit includes a 4 pole to 7-way adapter that would plug into the existing 4 pole. You'll only need to make two additional connections. You'll need to ground the adapter to the vehicle, and run a 12-volt feed to the positive battery terminal to feed the controller. Along with the adapter, the kit includes all the wire, the circuit breaker and all necessary hardware to complete the installation.

A less expensive controller option that would be just as easy to use is the Curt Echo, part # C51180. Rather than the remote used by the Prodigy RF, the Echo wirelessly communicates with your smart phone using the app you'd install. The Echo wouldn't be permanently mounted to the trailer, so it could be swapped back and forth between trailers with ease.

If you tend to be hard on your equipment, the Prodigy RF would be a better choice.

I've linked to demonstration videos for the # TK94FR Prodigy RF, the # ETBC7L install kit and the Curt # C51180 Echo wireless brake controller.