Recommended 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 2006 Ford Van

Question:

I have a 2006 e350 van. There is only a 4 pin trailer plug on the van. I have a cargo trailer with brakes that have a 7 pin plug. What do I need to buy to be able to use the breaks? Thank you very much

asked by: David S

Expert Reply:

Since your 2006 Ford E-350 van already has a 4-way connector, you will need the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your vehicle with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle, like your van, with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.

You will then connect the blue wire to the blue wire on the brake controller, connect the black wire to the positive post on your van's battery, the white wire to ground, and the yellow wire to the reverse circuit. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's accessory lights.

I have attached an installation video below so you can see how to get this 7-way set up.

You are also going to need a brake controller. If you haven't already decided on one, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item # RED24FR. This is a proportional brake controller that activates your trailer's brakes when your van decelerates. It has a unique installation method where the only visible portion is the control knob that's about the size of a nickel. The main unit is hidden away inside your dash to be completely out of the way and out of sight.

I have linked an installation video below.

If your 2006 E-350 came from the factory with the 4-way connector then your van has the tow package you will not need to worry about splicing wires because you will have a port beneath your dash that the Redarc Plug in Adapter item # RED87FR will plug right into. This adapter will give you an easy plug and play installation.

The port for the brake controller should be located under the dash just above where where your right leg would be if you were behind the wheel.

If your 4-way isn't from the factory you'll need the Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers item # RED69FR to complete the installation.