Parts Needed to Add a 7-Way and Trailer Brake Controller to a 2001 Ford Expedition

Question:

My ford dealer said wiring harness #13A576 is what I need to convert flat blade connection to 7 pin for e-brake controll...this Curt part #C55243 looks right on the harness connector end.. please confirm the right part please.

asked by: Tom P

Expert Reply:

On a 2001 Ford Expedition that did not come with a factory 7-Way, you will actually need to use adapter # 37185 to add a 7-Way. To connect the 4-Wires on the 37185 you will need to first ground the white wire to the truck frame. Then you will want to follow the factory wiring forward on the vehicle to where it plugs into another connector.

On the connector on the forward side, there are more wires going in then coming out. If you pull back the covering on the wires you will find some additional wires. There should be an orange wire with 12 volt power that will attach to the adapter black wire. Use a circuit tester like # PTW2979 to confirm the orange wire is 12 volt power.

The blue wire on the truck will connect to the blue wire on the harness. Then there will only be a purple why left on the 37185. This will attach to the reverse light wire behind one of the tail lights. If the trailer does not have reverse lights or a reverse electric lock out then you can just tape up this wire and stow it out of the way.

Then you will just need to add the brake controller and wiring harness. For a brake controller I recommend the P2, # 90885. It is a reliable controller that is easy to set up and use. The correct harness is # 3035-P. I have included links to a video and instructions that should help. I have also included a link to an FAQ article that will help you.

expert reply by: Michael H