When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hey folks-
Can anyone tell me how to determine if my truck came with the factory tow package? I bought this '97 in 2005 with 73 K on it. It has a 2" receiver and 7-pin RV trailer plug. I have towed many things with it before, but all had surge brakes. Bought a used camper that has electric brakes and need a brake controller. I figure if it is factory tow package, there should be a connection to plug the right adapter for the brake controller into. But don't know how to tell if it is factory tow package or if PO simply put a receiver hitch on it.
I ran the VIN through the decoder, but nothing came up indicating factory tow package.
Thanks in advance for any advice/assistance!
OK- So I am fairly certain that this truck does, in fact, have the tow package. The original owner saved the window sticker from when the truck was in the lot at the dealer. One of the options listed is "Camper Package" for $295 (1997) dollars.
So I figure it has the brake controller somewhere under the dash. I believe I have identified the correct connector. It appears to be a grey connector with a five pin (3 over 2, longways in the connector) configuration.
Anyone able to confirm, so I know what I am looking for when I shop for a controller and adapter?
Thanks!
RightSideOnly fan, I don't think there were really any towing packages as an option, maybe a dealer added brake controller, and I think bumpers were options then too. But be patient and someone knowledgeable will come along and give your some helpful information.
Is it a 3/4 or 1 ton. Camper package is probably for a in the box camper. It may have come with heavier leafs or overloads. I didn't think these things came with a "towing" package because you couldn't get a receiver hitch from the factory. But it very well could have come with the wiring for a controller
You have a tow package then. My truck is a 1996 and has the tow package. Should be a grey connector under the dash just under the ash tray (that is where mine is anyways) My truck also had factory plugs for 7 pin connector in the back. I just installed the Ford plug harness when I put my receiver hitch on. My truck also has a factory 7 pin plug in the bed for 5er or goose neck.
I installed new Ford 7 pin plug and brake controller and everything worked as it should.
Guy I bought the trailer from forgot to give me the brake controller. I never even thought about it, as the last camper I pulled ( a 1979 model) had surge brakes.
Stopped at the Ford dealer on my way home from work today for the universal adapter and my friend behind the counter told me that what I had found was indeed the controller port. Wired it up this afternoon and all is well. Can't calibrate until I am almost ready to leave Friday am because it is so tight on our property to move the 31 footer into/out of the driveway. I'll just stop at the WalMart parking lot or somewhere else with plenty of level open space on my way to pick up the wife at noon from her job and hit the road.