Comparing OEM 7-Way and ETBC7 on 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and Brake Controller Recommendation

Question:

I have a 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the factory tow package. Unfortunately, the tow package only comes with a 4 pin flat connector. We are buying a camper with electric brakes and need the 7-pin round connector. We will also be needing a brake controller I know that there is a Mopar Part Number for a 7-pin connector. I think that Mopar # 82210214AB.1 is an OEM 7-pin round wiring kit that supposedly attaches to all factory connectors. Is there any benefit to the Mopar unit over the ETBC7 kit that you sell? If you are familiar with both, would one be any easier/quicker to install? Other input I would appreciate is brake controller advice. What is the difference between them all. What unit would you recommend? I have a Prodigy in my 2006 Ram. But I dont know if I can tell the difference between that and any others that I have used in the past?

asked by: Robert M

Helpful Expert Reply:

I can't speak on the Mopar part but I can tell you that the # ETBC7 allows you to plug in the 4-Way to it but all the other connections have to be hardwired. I have included some links to the right that show and explain the ETBC7 installation for you.

It is possible on the Mopar connector that you would need to have a Jeep dealer reprogram the computer for it to work. This is the case with the newer Grand Cherokees. You would have to ask a dealership on that.

There are 2 kinds of brake controllers: time delay and proportional. Time delay controllers are old technology and require frequent adjustment to get the proper braking for a given situation. The benefit is that the controller itself can be mounted at any angle.

Proportional controllers like your Prodigy apply the trailer brakes in proportion to how much the tow vehicle is braking. This is the safest way to stop and it reduces wear and tear on the trailer and tow vehicle.

There are 2 types of proportional controllers. The less expensive and/or older ones use a pendulum type device to sense deceleration while the newer ones use accelerometers to sense declaration and are better at braking control than the pendulum style.

I strongly recommend a proportional controller, specifically the P2, # 90885, because it is easy to set up and use and it is reliable. That is why it is the most popular controller we carry. I have included a link to our help article on brake controllers for you to view.