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1983 - 2012 Ranger & B-Series All Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series models

Installing a brake controller

Old Jun 12, 2009 | 08:52 AM
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Installing a brake controller

I want to install an Electronic brake controller in my ranger, so I can tow my camper short distances when I need to. The ranger is not my primary tow vehicle.

On my expedition there was a plug under the dash. I just wired the controller to a ford wiring kit and plugged it in. Do I have that option with a ranger? I bet not because I dont have a factory 7pin plug in the back.

Anyone ever installed one, what am I looking at for trouble spots?

2002 Ranger XLT 4.0
DOES have tow package
 
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Old Jun 12, 2009 | 09:50 AM
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There should be a plug up under the rear bumper to the passenger side of the license plate area for the ford trailer plug harness to be added.
 
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Old Jun 12, 2009 | 01:08 PM
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My '08 Sport 4x4 didn't have the plug for the 7-way harness, just the four-way. I had to add 2 wires (#10awg for 12v bat charge and #12awg for brake control) from the rear to the engine compartment. I placed two circuit breakers near the battery. The #10 wire goes thru one 30 amp circuit breaker and then connects to the battery. The second circuit breaker (20 amp) provides power to the controller. The #12 wire runs from the rear and into the cab to the controller.
...Terry
 
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Old Jun 12, 2009 | 01:58 PM
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I think my greatest challenge will be to find the correct wire under the dash to splice into for the brake, to "actuate" the controller. I need to research this, but no idea where to start looking

etrailer has a complete kit with all the wiring and breakers and mounting hardware+plugs for $50, it seems the best way to go.
 
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Old Jun 12, 2009 | 02:27 PM
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My wiring diagram may help you find the correct wire on the brake pedal. You should have no trouble finding the switch above the pedal. One wire is 12 volt battery (light green/red) and one wire goes to the brake lites (light green). Connect the controller to this last one.
...Terry
 
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