Just got a 2013 f-250 with tow package. Truck did not have the trailer brakes. Its wired up and has the 7 pin and 4 pin plugs in the rear. Is it a plug and play to put the Ford brake controller in?

 

That doesn't make sense to me.

You have the factory tow package, but not the factory brake controller?

It's built-in to, and a part of, the truck's braking system already, isn't it?

What am I missing here?

Pop

 

It is a XL model, from what I have read so far, the factory controller can be installed as long as the truck has the factory 7 and 4 pin plus 2" reciever. Having those 3 items indicates it has the tow package. Also the factory window sticker states tow package. Going to the dealer tomorrow, was hoping for more info here.

 

You've only asked the question two hours ago.

Give the guys a chance, and you'll get the right info here.

Pop

 

Did not mean it the way it sounded. That came off wrong,

thank you

 

All's good.....

Pop

 

The '11 F150 I had came with the tow package w/o the TBC. Strange but true.
Had dealer install it and flash the comp.

 

I believe all Super Duty pickups come with the "Tow Package"... could be different for the cab & chassis since they are often special use. The tow package is pretty much just the hitch and electrical connections. It's optional on the smaller pickups.

It is the "TowCommand" package that includes the trailer brake controller. Not all Super Duty pickups come with this.

In 2008 you had to change the brake master cylinder, add the brake controller, then have a dealer enable the brake controller.

I believe the brake master cylinders are the same for 2013 models, but you will still have to add the controller and have a dealer enable the feature.

 

Lets have a look at your window sticker. Plug your vin in this link:

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I suppose you could have gotten the tow mirrors without the TBC.

Having the receiver with the connects (7 pin/4pin) comes on all the trucks. Just have the receiver does not mean tow package.

 

here is my vin# 1FT7W2B6XDEA54960, I could not get link to work

 

Here you go. It did not come with the TBC. It would have been listed. While it did come with the manual mirrors.

the receiver is standard.

 

I just got from my dealer, service dept. According to them they can install it no problem, did say they would have to open the program up and to install it too.. So I take it back @ 2pm....we will see.

 

It should be pretty painless. When they program it for the TBC, they will also flash any patches/updates that are in the system so it may drive different when you first get it back. Sometimes it resets the adaptives, shift points etc.

 

Controller is in and seems to work. Find out tomorrow for sure. I asked the service rep and he told me on average that if the truck comes wired for trailer lights then the controller can be installed and programed in. He said if no trailer light plugs, then most likely a Ford controller will not be able to be installed. Anyways, we are ready to hookup the gooseneck and haul some tractors tomorrow