Brake Controller and Wiring for a 1990 Ford F-250 Towing a 2 Tandem Axle Trailer

Updated 03/24/2016 | Published 03/22/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6581)

$158.69

T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector

(183)

$36.25

Tekonsha Prodigy P2 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(2741)

$134.95

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(3349)

$104.08

Question:

Wanting to put a brake controller in my 1990 F250. Can you tell me how to determine which controller I need? I pull a 2 axle trailer twice a year for 65 miles. I am also not sure if I have a plug for the controller or if I need to hard wire it. I am the third owner and I have found a blue wire that has been cut down by the brake pedal, thru the fire wall and down the frame. Thanks for your help

asked by: Max M

Expert Reply:

I can help you pick out a brake controller and figure out if your truck has been wired already or not.

First lets start with the brake controller. I highly recommend the Tekonsha P3 # 90195, because it is a proportional brake controller which means it senses how the tow vehicle is slowing or stopping and applies the trailer's brakes with the same intensity. It also has a full display screen instead of codes that need deciphering. The P2 # 90885 is like the P3's little brother, it has all the great qualities but won't have the display screen.

According to my research you will have to hardwire your 1990 Ford F-250. It sounds like maybe the previous owner may have run the wires to the battery based on what you are describing. I have linked a help article that will help you identify if it is all run correctly. A good indication to know, is if there is a 7-way connector mounted on the back bumper of the vehicle by the hitch. If you end up seeing that you do not have this, I recommend the # ETBC7 kit, because it includes everything you will need to get a 7-way installed on your vehicle plus a wire tester. If you don't already have a 4-pole on your vehicle the TowReady # 118316 will simply and easily plug into your already run taillight wires and provide the basic stop/turn tail functions for your 7-way.

I have linked a few help articles as well as the P3, 118316, and ETBC7 being installed on similar vehicles for your convenience.