Factory Trailer Brake Controller installation feedback

[nkyhunter]

how the hell does one unplug the phone charger and usb plug from the bottom of the console, not sure squeeze ,pull apart,lift up or get c4 and blow it up?

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[tjparisi]

Dumb question, if I push the button should it light up with no trailer connected? Just installed it and don’t have a trailer handy. Wondering if i messed something up.

 

[jd-ford-hd]

There is an option. No need to remove console.!

https://thebronconation.com/forums/...d-trailer-brake-controller.12345/#post-191816

 

[88to21bronco]

So let me add a stupid question: an "off-the-shelf" one-piece under dash controller won't work like it would in most trucks? Am I understanding this correctly?

 

[MTBrad]

Dumb question, if I push the button should it light up with no trailer connected? Just installed it and don’t have a trailer handy. Wondering if i messed something up.

Great question...im in the same boat!

 

[RoverDude]

Great question...im in the same boat!

It should / will not light up without a load connected to it. Using a plug tester (led type) will not work either. I used some alligator clips and a cheap generic tail-light bulb from the autoparts store.
Using a lamp will make the knob light up/glow, and adjusting the knob will dim the lamp (indicting difference in braking voltage/force)


" To test your Tow-Pro Elite brake controller, connect a 5 - 26W bulb or automotive test light (with a bulb in it, not LED type) between the ‘ground’ pin (no. 1) and ‘brake controller output’ pin (no. 2) of your trailer 7 pin plug. "

 

[MTBrad]

Thanks RoverDude! That is a huge help!

 

[BAronco]

Jebster, as Mybbackpacker stated the tow package as everything for towing with the seven pin connector except the brake controller and there is a plug to the right of the steering column to plug the Ford (REDARC) brake controller in. No cutting are splicing of wires.

Thanks, was wondering what that plug in was for!

 

[Doccruz1]

Installed my controller in preparation to pick up my travel trailer

Hated the recommended location so I put it where it fit perfect

 

[Doccruz1]

There is an option. No need to remove console.!

https://thebronconation.com/forums/...d-trailer-brake-controller.12345/#post-191816

Exactly what I did then I see you post I must of been thinking like that Guy

 

[jd-ford-hd]

So let me add a stupid question: an "off-the-shelf" one-piece under dash controller won't work like it would in most trucks? Am I understanding this correctly?

The answer is no regarding what you’ve been led to believe. And yes, any brake controller you described will work, plug and play, if you have factory tow package….but brings on another question……WHY..? The Redarc is the greatest thing to happen to electric trailer brakes since….well….since Benjamin Franklin got his socks knocked off.! Well worth the cost.!

 

[zedster]

The answer is no regarding what you’ve been led to believe. And yes, any brake controller you described will work, plug and play, if you have factory tow package….but brings on another question……WHY..? The Redarc is the greatest thing to happen to electric trailer brakes since….well….since Benjamin Franklin got his socks knocked off.! Well worth the cost.!

What is the difference between this unit and the one from Ford? When I tried to buy the Ford one I waited forever and then it was cancelled due to being unavailable.

 

[jd-ford-hd]

What is the difference between this unit and the one from Ford? When I tried to buy the Ford one I waited forever and then it was cancelled due to being unavailable.

Nothing except the Ford accessory has the "vehicle specific" connector harness in the kit. Either of the Redarc Tow Pro units will work. The "Elite" will accommodate 24 volt and will actuate 3 trailer axles. No need for the Elite in a Bronco..!
https://www.redarcelectronics.com/us/catalog/product_compare/

 

[jd-ford-hd]

If your Bronco has the factory installed tow package you only need these two items: see pics.

 

[jd-ford-hd]

If your Bronco does NOT have factory installed trailer tow, you will need these five (5) items AND add your own wiring, front to rear, for 12v, neg. ground and brakes. The yellow wire is often ignored due to very few people needing back up lights to their trailer.

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