Parts Needed To Install Trailer Brake Controller In 2015 Ford Explorer W/O Tow Package
Question:
Good Morning - if I have an after market 4 pin trailer connection, do I add a brake controller and convert to a 7 pin, or do I need to replace all the wiring? Thanks.
asked by: Ted E
Expert Reply:
There are a few ways to go add a trailer brake controller to your 2015 Ford Explorer without the factory tow package.
The easiest way and the option I recommend is replacing your aftermarket 4-way connector with the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector # C56306 which will plug into the factory connectors in your Explorer and give you a 7-way connector. Then for a trailer brake controller I recommend the Curt Echo Wireless # C51180 as it plugs directly into the 7-way connector and will not require any additional connections.
The other option is if you want a traditional controller you would need to use the # ETBC7 which will plug into your 4-way connector and require a few connections. You will need to run the black wire to the positive terminal of your battery with the included 40 amp circuit breaker, ground the white wire to the frame, and extend the blue wire to where you are planning on mounting the controller.
For a trailer brake controller the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885 you were looking at is a great choice as it is a proportional controller meaning that it matches the intensity sent to your trailer brakes with the intensity you apply the brakes in your Explorer for a nice, controlled stop.
With either of these options you may also need a no drill mounting bracket # 18140 to mount the connector to your trailer hitch receiver if your trailer hitch receiver does not have a built in mounting bracket.
I included videos 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 >
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 >
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Automatic Leveling
- Under-Dash Box
- Dash Mount
- Up to 4 Axles
- LED Display
- Up to 360 Degrees
- Tekonsha
more information >
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on Trailer Brake Controller
