Trailer Hitch, Wiring, and Brake Controller for a 2011 Ford Explorer Without OEM Tow Package

Question:

I am considering purchasing a pop-up tent trailer that has a GVWR of 3,113lbs. My vehicle is a 2011 4WD Ford Explorer without a factory hitch/wiring. I currently have multiple 2 inch ball mounts. Specifically looking at the following items: 1 C13386 2 C59236 3 C51515 4 HM40975 5 C74VV Would these get me 100 percent set-up? Are there other items you would suggest and why. If I decide to make the purchase Id love to be able to hook-up and go. Thanks for your response.

asked by: Ben W

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Curt trailer hitch # C13386 is the most popular hitch for your 2011 Ford Explorer so you are off to a good start. You mentioned that you already have different ball mounts and likely also have properly sized balls to tow the trailer so I can skip that part.

The trailer wiring harness # C59236 that you have selected is also a fit but this is a universal kit that requires cutting and splicing into the vehicle tail light wiring. If you want to avoid that then I recommend a T-connector, # C56093, that will plug in line with the vehicle tail light wiring. Either harness requires a direct connection to the battery to power the trailer lights.

Since your Ford Explorer did not come with a trailer wiring harness or factory tow package in order to add a 7-Way and install a trailer brake controller you will need 4 and 7-Way installation kit # ETBC7. This means you will not use # HM40975. The # ETBC7 kit comes with the 7-Way, retains the 4-Way, and the wiring and accessories needed to hardwire in the brake controller. I have included some links that show and explain the # ETBC7 installation.

That leaves the brake controller and wiring harness to go with it. Since the controller, # C74VV, will have to be hardwired in anyway, you can just cut off the connector that is on it and just use the wires. This means you will not need harness # C51515. If you wanted to, though, you can still use it.

With all of these things installed and set up you will be good to go. I have included some helpful links for you on installations of the hitch and wiring and brake controllers.