Trailer brake controller wiring questions
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Senior User
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 128
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Trailer brake controller wiring questions
Other than losing the manual function and the on the fly adjustment, both of which I very rarely used, is there any reason I can't mount my trailer brake controller at the rear of my vehicle?
Can I simply use the stop light wire from the trucks four flat connection to trigger the brake controller instead of a wire right from the brake pedal switch?
This would make installing the controller SOOO much easier.
Thanks,
CHAZ
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Can I simply use the stop light wire from the trucks four flat connection to trigger the brake controller instead of a wire right from the brake pedal switch?
This would make installing the controller SOOO much easier.
Thanks,
CHAZ
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Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 45
Likes: 0
From: Griswold, CT
What truck are you installing it in? I know SDs have a quick connect under the dash, so that is easier than splicing wires. I wouldn't put one outside the truck, because the electronics won't stand up to the weather. Also, the controller inside the cab will give you indication that you still have a good connection to the trailer. If the trailer is heavy enough to need brakes, I wouldn't cut corners on the install.
All late model (1998+) Ford trucks have the wiring installed already.
Postmaster
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,743
Likes: 3
From: Peoria, IL
I highly doubt that the controllers are sealed up good enough to withstand the dirt/dust/water that it would encounter if you installed it at the back of the truck.
It really isn't that hard to install one on most vehicles.
It really isn't that hard to install one on most vehicles.
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
just a side note...my 94 had the quick connect under the dash, right under the power point. But the Blue wire that SHOULD go all the way back to the rear bumper, only went as far as the firewall connector that is left of the brake pedal. The blue wire goes into the connector, but there was no wire in the mating slot on the engine side of the firewall. So I had to splice in from there and run the blue wire (to actuate the trailer brakes) to the rear bumper.
All that to say, just because you find the quick connect and your brake controller does power up, doesn't mean the wiring runs all the way to the back.
Kind Regards,
All that to say, just because you find the quick connect and your brake controller does power up, doesn't mean the wiring runs all the way to the back.
Kind Regards,
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,496
Likes: 3
From: Simpsonville, KY
In new trucks (1998+) its wired all the way to the rear of the frame, where the rear light harness hooks into the main harness. You just have to tap in above the left rear tire and you are good to go!
