Parts Needed to Install a 7-Way Trailer Connector and Brake Controller on a 1996 Ford F-150

Question:

Hi there - Im having the break item for towing put into my FORD. C51120 is the item #. I also need the 7 prong outlet for the back of the truck. Being new to towing etc can you please let me know any other items that will be needed for installation - Wires, Adapters etc so when I go to my mechanic the process will not be delayed. Thanks.! PS - these are the items in my cart - let me know if Im on the right track or if some of these are not needed. 30310 7-Way Metal Trailer Connector, Car End H20042 7-Way Molded Trailer Wire Connector, 3foot Long

asked by: Johnny

Helpful Expert Reply:

There are some things in your cart that you do not need and you are missing some other things you do need. To install a brake controller in your 1996 Ford F-150 you first have to look at if the truck has any trailer connector or not. You mentioned you do not have a 7-Way on the truck but do you have a 4-Way flat connector?

If you do have a 4-Way flat trailer connector then you will need 7-Way adapter # 37185. The 4-Way plugs into the adapter then there are some loose wires that need to be installed. The white wire grounds to the truck frame. The black wire is for 12 volt power, blue for brake output to the trailer, and purple or yellow for reverse lights.

On the 1996 Ford F-150 if it came with a factory 4-Way you will trace the 4-Way harness forward on the truck to wear it plugs into another connector. Peal back the covering forward of that forward connector to reveal more wires. The black wire on the adapter will attach to the orange wire. Blue will go to blue. If the trailer has reverse lights then tap into a reverse light wire behind the tail lights. If the trailer does not have reverse lights you can tape up this wire and stow it out of the way. I have linked an FAQ article that will help with this installation.

If your truck does not have any type of trailer connector you will first add a 4-Way using # 118316. Then you would need to use the 4 and 7-Way installation kit # ETBC7. I have included links to the installation details for ETBC7 for you.

And unless you need to replace the trailer end 7-Way you will not need # H20042.