Recommended 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 1998 Toyota 4Runner
Updated 10/30/2025 | Published 10/10/2025
Question:
I have a 98 4runner without a tow package. I have installed a 4 pin trailer light harness already so I could pull my single axel utility trailer that has lights on it and it works fine. My question is, I recently purchased a tandem utility trailer with a brake axel and need to install a brake controller. What do I need to install and what controller should I purchase
asked by: Robert Z
Expert Reply:
Hey Robert, congrats on the new trailer! Since you already have a 4-way connector, you're going to need to add a 7-Way connector and a brake controller to your 1998 Toyota 4Runner.
For a 7-way connector, I recommend the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your 4Runner with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle, like yours, with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.
You will then connect the blue wire to the blue wire on the brake controller, connect the black wire to the positive post on your Toyota's battery, the white wire to a suitable ground, and the yellow wire to the accessory circuit. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's battery. This kit includes all the wiring, connectors, and circuit breakers you'll need.
The Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller item # TK90160, you were looking at, would be a great option. I've got one of these in my Silverado and it's extremely reliable and user friendly. The included wiring harness is all you'll need to get it setup.
What kind of trailer did you get?
(click to enlarge)
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Moon Fabrications MoonShade Pro Vehicle-Mounted Awning with Modular Walls
- Video: DIY Install: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on your 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen
- Shop: Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Shop: Hopkins Plug-In Simple Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Q&A: Brake Controller Installation Kit for a 1999 Toyota 4Runner with Tow Package
- Shop: ArcHaus Camping Tent and Clip-On Interior Screen Room - 10' Long x 6' Wide x 6-1/2' Tall
- Q&A: Side Tent Options for Tag & Tag XL Tear Trailers
- Q&A: Left Side Trailer Lights Not Working With New LED Trailer Lights Installed
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Article: Brake Controller Installation: Starting from Scratch
- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 7-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a 4-Way and 7-Way Trailer Connector
- Q&A: My Vehicle has a 4-Pin Trailer Plug, but Trailer has 7-Pin Trailer Plug
- Article: Towing a Trailer? Let's Talk About Brake Controllers
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 and the P3 Brake Controllers
Jerred H.
10/30/2025
Hey Robert, how did the setup with the ETBC7 kit and the Primus IQ controller go on your 4Runner? Were you able to get the trailer brakes working smoothly with your tandem trailer? Your update could make it easier for the next person adding a brake controller to an older SUV.