Equipping 2017 Subaru Outback and Trailer For Electric Trailer Brakes
Question:
Hi, so I have a predicament. Tow vehicle is 2017 Subaru Outback owners manual says max tow is 2700 lbs with trailer brakes. The load is a 900 lbs. trailer with a 1,000 lbs. Polaris RZR. My current trailer does not have brakes and only 2-wire lighting kit. What is my best option to add brakes and will we need to install a brake controller in the Subaru?
asked by: Phillip F
Expert Reply:
The owners manual states that trailer brakes should be used if the trailer weight exceeds 1000 lbs.
I'd be happy to recommend parts needed to equip your trailer with brakes, but in order to recommend the correct parts, I'll need more information about your trailer. I'll need to know the following:
• Do trailer spindles have brake mounting flanges?
• What's the tire size and wheel bolt pattern?
• What are the reference numbers from the inner and outer wheel bearings?
I'll link to an article that explains what's needed to add electric brakes to a trailer that doesn't already have them.
You will also need to wire the trailer with a 7-way trailer connector like # HS381-9000, and install a trailer break away kit like # 20400.
Finally, you'll need a brake controller to actuate the brakes. The easiest to install option would be a wireless controller like the Curt Echo, part # C51180. To install a 7-way, you'll first need a functional 4 pole, using # 118467. To upgrade that to a 7-way, use the # ETBC7 kit.
I've linked to some installation videos that you'll find helpful. Get back with me with the information I've requested above, and we'll get you set up.
Products Referenced in This Question
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Powered Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Hopkins Engager Push-To-Test Trailer Breakaway Kit with Built-In Battery Charger - Top Load
- Trailer Breakaway Kit
- Kit with Charger
- Top Load
- Single-axle
- Tandem-axle
- LED Tester
- Hopkins
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 >
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 >
Wiring Kit for Hydrastar Electric Over Hydraulic Actuators
- Accessories and Parts
- Brake Actuator
- Disc Brakes
- Hydraulic Drum Brakes
- Wiring
- Hydrastar
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Converter
- Custom Fit
- 4 Flat
- Tekonsha
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: How Much Can a 2014 Toyota Tacoma Tow with the Bumper
- Q&A: Determine Between Factory 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connectors
- Q&A: Adding a 7-Way Trailer Connector to a 2007 Toyota Tacoma
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Q&A: American Made Trailer Wiring Harness Recommendation for a 2006 Toyota Tacoma
- Q&A: Recommended Towing Components for 2015 to 2017 Chevy Traverse
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)