etrailer

Accessories and Parts

Ball Mounts

Cargo Bags

Tow Bar Wiring

etrailer Reviews and Installation Videos

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 1993 Chevy Suburban

Review of the Etrailer Lizard Skins Chainstay Guard

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 1990 Ford F-150

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 1996 Ford Explorer

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK25318

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2011 Ford Ranger

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2010 Dodge Nitro

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK2216

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK25518

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK4

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK4EL

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1999 Toyota Tacoma

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2012 Ford Van

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2013 Jeep Wrangler

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2007 Chrysler 300

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2009 Dodge Dakota

Review of a Surco Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier on a 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2009 Toyota Tacoma

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2009 Honda Odyssey

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1999 GMC Suburban

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1990 Dodge Ram Pickup

Review of the etrailer.com Ball Mount Bag

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1999 Sterling L-Line

Review of a Tow Ready 24 by 60 Hitch Mounted Cargo Carrier

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Part 2

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2003 Chevrolet Express Van

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2013 Toyota Highlander

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2005 Ford Freestar

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Part 1

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2009 Chrysler Aspen

Review of etrailer Ball Mounts EBMK2EL

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2006 Chevrolet Uplander

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2006 Ford Ranger

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser Part 2

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller Installation Kit on a 2002 Ford Van

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Kia Sedona

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2006 Ford Ranger

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2011 Toyota RAV4

Installation of a Cargo Carrier Light Kit

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Toyota Tacoma

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Ford Explorer

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 1999 Dodge Ram Pickup

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2003 Chevrolet Express Van

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2003 Chevrolet Express Van

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2002 Ford Ranger

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2003 Kia Sedona

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2006 Honda Odyssey

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2002 Toyota Tundra

Review of the Brake Controller Installation Wiring Kit

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1991 Ford F-150

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2001 Chevrolet Express Van

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2001 Nissan Xterra

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2004 Dodge Sprinter

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2010 Toyota Highlander

Review of the Surco Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier on a 2012 Chrysler Town and Country

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller Reverse Light Lead

Review of the LED Light Kit for Railed Cargo Carriers

Review of the Tow Ready Cargo Carrier Light Kit

Installation of a Brake Controller for a Trailer on a 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser Part 1

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2001 Dodge Ram

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Saturn Outlook

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2012 Nissan NV

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2013 Toyota Highlander

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1999 Dodge Ram

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2004 Ford Explorer

Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2008 Hyundai Entourage

Review of the Surco Folding Hitch Cargo Carrier on a 2011 Ford Expedition

Expert Answers about etrailer

What Is The Purple Wire Used For On The Brake Controller 7 & 4 Way Installation Kit # ETBC7
The purple wire on the adapter included with the Brake Controller 7 & 4 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7, is an auxiliary wire and can be used as a 12 volt power source, to power a reverse light or reverse lockout function for trailer brakes if needed. This wire can be tied up if it is not used, which is why you often see it left unused in our installation videos. You can see some helpful wiring diagrams at the link provided, as well as a video showing the purple wire on the 4-Way to 7 and 4-Wa
view full answer...

Making Brake Stoplight Switch Connection When Installing Brake Controller on 2008 Chevy Uplander
The Uplander uses a unique wiring set-up, in that the brake stoplight switch circuit is accessed differently than is typically done. Under the dash, to the left of the steering column, is the BCM or body control module. There is a very large 52-pin connector that plugs into the BCM. In the center of the connector, a white wire can be found that can be used to obtain a good brake signal. Tekonsha issued a Technical Bulletin complete with photos that you will find helpful, to view the bulletin
view full answer...

Is the Price the Same for All Replacement Trailer Hitch Hardware Kits # RHK
The price listed on the product page for replacement hardware kit # RHK is the same for any hitch. To verify this I selected two very different hitches from two different manufacturers and the price was the same for either one. To order the correct kit you will need to put the hitch number in the box on the RHK product page, choose the manufacturer from the drop down menu, and then click the add to cart button.
view full answer...

Brake Switch Wire Location to Hardwire a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1997 Chevy Suburban
It does sound like you have the wrong wire attached to the brake controller red wire. I do know that on a 1993 Chevy Suburban, the wire you need on the brake switch is white. But you will need to use a circuit tester like you mentioned to find the wire. You need the one that only shows power when you step on the brakes. If the wire also shows power with the turn signals on, flashers, or with the headlights on then it is not the correct wire. I have included a video link that might help on the 19
view full answer...

What Ball Mount and Suspension Kit for Towing 2000-lb Trailer with 2013 Toyota Highlander SE Model
A ball mount with rise or drop is helpful in matching the different heights of the trailer hitch on a tow vehicle and the coupler on a trailer. It is important that your trailer frame be level when hitched to your Highlander to ensure stability when towing. Please note that a different height ball mount will not reduce rear-end sag in your tow vehicle; but we do offer suspension products that will help. We offer a wide range of both fixed and adjustable ball mounts (the adjustable type is gre
view full answer...

Does Light Kit for Railed Cargo Carriers Part # 20174 Include Running Light Function
Yes, the Light Kit for Railed Cargo Carriers, Part # 20174, does include the tail/running light function. These cargo carrier lights should illuminate whenever your vehicle turn signals, brake lights and tail lights are on. You can start by unplugging the 4-pole connector and confirming that the vehicle running lights operate properly. Next use a circuit tester like the Quickee #3808 on the vehicle 4-pole connector to verify that it is passing a running light signal. Ground the tester and te
view full answer...

Instructions on Installing a Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller # 90195 on 2006 Chevrolet Express Van
If you look at our FAQ page on brake controllers, which I have provided for you, you will see a chart showing how to match the typical wire colors from your 2006 Chevrolet Express Van and the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Brake Controller # 90195. If your vehicle has a factory-provided brake controller harness, the breakdown is as follows: Wire Harness: Red, Brake Controller: Black, Function: +12 Volts Wire Harness: Light Blue, Brake Controller: Red, Function: Stoplight Wire Harness: Black, Brake Con
view full answer...

Alternate Location to Install a Brake Controller Red Wire on a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
Brake switch wires can be small but if you do not want to even attempt to tap into it, there is other place you can obtain a dedicated brake light signal. Flip open your owners manual to the fuse section to find the CHMSL fuse (center high mount stop light). You can use a fuse tap to tap into the CHMSL circuit and get the brake signal that way. The rest of the installation will be like the FAQ and video I have linked. For a brake controller, I reocmmend the P2 # 90885. It is reliable, easy
view full answer...

Tail Light Kit for a Curt Trailer Hitch Mount Cargo Carrier on a 2009 Acura MDX
Since there is no specific light kit that will fit the Curt carrier # C18132 what you will need to do is use a light kit like # 20174, and then add 2 brackets, # BK70BB. You will also need some self-tapping screws # 101131802, or drill and use the hardware of your choice to mount the brackets. Also, make sure that your MDX has a 4-Way trailer connector to plug the light kit into. If you need to add trailer wiring, use a # C56038 that you referenced. If you wanted an LED option you could ge
view full answer...

How to Determine the Correct Hitch Ball for a Ball Mount with a 1 Inch Diameter Ball Hole
If the diameter of the hole on your ball mount is 1 inch, then you will want a hitch ball with a 1 inch shank diameter. I have attached a link to all of our hitch balls with a 1 inch diameter shank. You will then need to determine what size hitch ball you need, a 1-7/8 inch, 2 inch or 2-5/16 inch ball diameter. For a 1-7/8 inch ball, you could use hitch ball # 19260. For a 2 inch ball, you can use # 19247 and for a 2-5/16 inch ball, you can use # 19287. The size of the ball will depend on th
view full answer...

Parts Needed to Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2003 Ford Ranger with Factory 4-Way
The 2003 Ford Ranger does not have a factory brake controller port. Instead you will need to use the 4 and 7 Way installation kit # ETBC7 that you have referenced. This kit provides the 7-Way, while still retaining the 4-Way, and all of the wiring needed to install a brake controller. I have included some links that explain the installation of the ETBC7 for you. If you need a brake controller I recommend the Tekonsha P2, # 90885, which is one of our best-selling controllers because it is easy
view full answer...

Compatibility of # 20174 Light Kit with Pro Series Railed Cargo Carriers
The Pro Series Cargo Carriers (part #s 63152, 63153, 63154 and 63155) are indeed compatible with the # 20174 light kit you referenced. The light kit is also available in an LED version as part # 98174LED. Rola also offers a compatible LED version, part # 59516 which uses a heavier-duty wiring harness. LED lamps will draw a fraction of the power of incandescent bulbs, and you will never need to replace a light bulb.
view full answer...

Can a 4-Way Converter Box Power Wire be Connected to the 12 Volt Wire on an ETBC7 for a 2008 Mazda 5
You can connect the power wire from the 4-Way converter, # 118520 or # 56016, to the 12 volt power wire from # ETBC7. What you will want to do is have the 4-Ways in line fuse in between the converter and the 12 volt wire from the ETBC7. This will allow for the proper protection of the 4-Way converter box. I have included a picture showing how this will basically wire up. However if the trailer is drawing more than 10 amps on the 12 volt circuit then it can blow that converter box in line fuse
view full answer...

Parts Needed to Install a Trailer Brake Controller on a 2004 Land Rover Discovery II
It sounds like you have a 7-Way blade style trailer connector which will look like # 37185. If you do have a European 7-Way, it will have a different design and pin functions. Use a circuit tester like # 3808 if needed to test the pins to determine what functions they have. Then compare those to what we list is the FAQ I linked to determine if you have a common North American type of connector or a European connector. If you do have a European trailer connector I do recommend switching that t
view full answer...

Extension Cable Available for the LED Light Kit for Railed Cargo Carriers, # 98174LED
Installation of this LED light kit wiring, part # 98174LED, may vary slightly depending on the specific cargo carrier you have and whether the wiring harness to the LED light assemblies has to be run underneath the cargo bed versus being threaded through the carrier deck. (This will depend on how large the openings are within the deck material). I have included a video link for this product that you may find helpful. We do have both 12 inch and 48 inch 4-pole connector extensions available. T
view full answer...

Turn and Brake Lights Do Not Work Using 6-Diode Kit and Converter for Towing a 2012 Cadillac SRX
It sounds like you have a good grasp on the installation of the Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Wiring Kit, # 154-792-118158, and you have already gone through a few troubleshooting steps, so I would recommend troubleshooting the converter box from the # 118158 wiring harness. Installing the # 118158 wiring harness at the front of your 2012 Cadillac SRX instead of closer to the tail lights is not a problem. To troubleshoot the converter box of this wiring harness, I would first recommend using
view full answer...

What is the Thread Size and Type on the Hitch Balls Used in the etrailer Ball Mount Kit # 989900
If you are looking at the balls that come in the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900, ball # 19247, is coarse threaded and has a 1-1/2 inch nut and lock washer included. Ball # 19260 is also coarse threaded and it also comes with a nut and lock washer. The shank diameter on each of these balls is 1 inch which is what the included ball mounts in # 989900 accept.
view full answer...

Where to Apply Caulk When Installing Trailer Roof Vent
You would want to run a bead of the sealant around the vent opening on the underside of the mounting flange as shown in red on the photo I edited for you. Put the vent into place, pressing firmly so that the sealer spreads to the area around the mounting holes so that they are sealed when the vent is screwed into place.
view full answer...

Wiring 2012 Cadillac SRX so that Third Brake Light Operates While Flat Towing
Although it is not required by law, you can indeed tie in the third brake lamp so that it operates when your SRX is connected to the motorhome. You will need an additional diode, part # RM-790 to prevent backfeed into the SRX. The diode would be wired as shown in the diagram I have produced for you. I have looked online and have not been able to find any information regarding the location of the wiring harness that feeds the third brake light. Your best bet would be to check behind the trim p
view full answer...

Isolator Recommendation to Prevent a Trailer Battery from Draining a Vehicle Battery
If you have a 7-way installed on your vehicle and trailer and the 12-volt power circuit goes to a battery installed on the trailer it will lightly charge the battery when the connectors are connected. You should note that it will not charge a dead battery back to life, but it will more or less maintain a good charge on a battery if it is in good shape already. If you are worried about your trailer draining your vehicle battery if the connectors are left together you have two options. First, y
view full answer...

Which Brake Wire Is Needed for Brake Controller Installation on a 2006 Nissan Murano
I looked up the 2006 Nissan Murano and the two switches on your brake pedal are for the brake light and the other switch is for the traction control/cruise control. To find the correct wire you will need to use a circuit tester like the Quickee Tester, part # 3808, and test the wires. I would start with the switch that has a red wire with a green stripe and test that wire for power only when the brakes are applied. I am including a link to a FAQ page on brake controllers. It does list some co
view full answer...

Parts Needed to Convert a Factory 4-Way from a 2006 Nissan Pathfinder to a 7-Way
I believe I have a solution that will allow you to install a brake controller on your 2006 Nissan Pathfinder. But you will not be able to use the plug underneath the dash of your vehicle. You will need a 4 and 7 Way Installation Kit, # ETBC7. Your existing 4-Way will plug into the back of the ETBC7. There will then be 4 wires left to hardwire. Check out the installation instructions I attached for the # ETBC7 as well the installation video. The brake controller connector under the dash wil
view full answer...

Universal 5th Wheel Hitch Install Kit for 2001 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Long Bed
Do you know the manufacturer of the hitch? The # RP30035 install kit includes the frame brackets, bed rails and hardware. This kit is compatible with Curt, Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, Reese, Valley and Husky brand hitches. If all you were needing was the hardware, it is available as part # 58164. A custom install kit is also available as part # RP50064-58. The custom kit typically takes about half the installation time as the universal kit. This kit is compatible with the hitches mentioned
view full answer...

Recommended Roof Top Cargo Bag for 2000 Toyota Sienna with no Crossbars
The Highland KarPak Rooftop Cargo Bag, part # 1039800 is a large soft-sided bag that is fairly aerodynamic. The bag has a 10 cubic foot capacity that can be expanded to 15 feet by opening some zippers. The bag is capable of being attached to the side rails on your roof. Adding crossbars like part # TH45050 would provide additional stability and attachment points for the bag, but they are not required. The KarPak is our most popular rooftop bag, and is highly rated by our customers. The bag is
view full answer...

What Size Bolts Come with the Replacement Hardware Kit # RHK
The photo shown for the Replacement Hardware Kit, # RHK, is just a generic photo of a hardware kit. The bolts, nuts, plates and washers will come in different sizes and quantities depending on the trailer hitch that you have. From the product page you simply enter in the model number and manufacturer of your trailer hitch and a specific hardware kit for your hitch will be sent to you.
view full answer...

Power Wire Routing Recommendations for a 2007 Subaru Forester for an # ETBC7 Kit
The best way to run wires under a vehicle is to route the wires away from any areas that could pinch or melt the wires. Typically running the wires through the frame rails or attaching them to an existing wiring harness is the best method. Or you could run the wire through the interior of your vehicle. This is my preference since it keeps the wires more protected. You will need to either drill holes in the floor of your vehicle or find existing holes that will be covered with rubber grommets
view full answer...

Installation of Roadmaster 6-Diode Universal Tow Bar Wiring Kit on 2005 Jeep Liberty
Since there is not much in the way of available space behind the tail light assemblies of your Liberty, you should have room for the diodes in the cavity below the tail light assemblies. There is not much room between the bumper cover and the vehicle body, but there should be enough room to push the diodes down into that cavity. If you look at the photo I edited for you, you will be able to see the area I am talking about. If you should find that there is NOT enough room to fit the diodes
view full answer...

Is 40 amp Breaker Included with ETBC7 Sufficient for Use with 10 Gauge Wire
The duplex cable included with the ETBC7 kit uses 10 gauge wire, which is appropriate for handling a circuit with a maximum of 40 amps with a run of 25 feet or less. We sell thousands of these kits per year, and have never had a reported problem with the gauge of wire being insufficient. Keep in mind that the primary purpose of this circuit is to maintain (not charge) a trailer mounted battery or to power a trailer mounted accessory requiring limited amperage, such as interior lighting. Trail
view full answer...

Parts Needed to Install a Tekonsha P2 Trailer Brake Controller on a 1997 Ford Explorer with 4-Way
You do not have to have the # ETBC7 to install a brake controller on a 1997 Ford Explorer with a factory 4-Way flat trailer connector. You will at least need # 37185. However, the # ETBC7 kit will make installation much easier and will provide all of the parts you will need including wire, circuit breakers, and the 7-Way. Some Ford vehicles do have additional wires under the truck where the 4-Way plugs into a harness that leads to the front of the vehicle, but you will still need additional p
view full answer...

2008 Ford Edge Brake Controller Install Instructions and Recommendation
Yes, you can install a brake controller on your 2008 Ford Edge. Since your Edge has a working factory 4-Way connector you will only need a brake controller and the brake controller installation kit, # ETBC7, that you referred to. For a brake controller the Prodigy P2, # 90885, which is easy to install and use, and gets great reviews by our customers, would be a great choice. We have a video showing the installation of the P2 brake controller with the ETBC7 kit on a Dodge Nitro that should
view full answer...

Order Tracking
Shipping Information
Contact Us
About Us

Help Videos and Articles
Search
Privacy Policy
Your Account Login