Installing Brake Controller on 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac With 5-Pole Trailer Connector  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

A 5 pin flat trailer connector is usually found on boat trailers that have surge or hydraulic braking couplers. The 5 pin connector provides a ground connection, plus the right turn/brake, left turn/brake and running light circuits found on the four pole. The extra pin is usually tied into the reverse lamp circuit of the tow vehicle. When the tow vehicle is shifted into reverse, this extra circuit sends power to the reverse lock out solenoid on the surge coupler so you can back the trailer without the trailer brakes activating.

If you're wanting to install a brake controller, I'd recommend using our Brake Controller Install Kit, part # ETBC7. The kit includes an adapter that would convert a 4-pole connector to a 7-way. You have a 5-pole, so you'd simply cut off your existing 5-pole and wire it to the adapter as I've shown in the photo.

The Tekonsha Voyager you referenced is a decent controller, but its lack of a digital display can make it difficult to use. I'd rather see you use the more user-friendly Primus, part # TK90160. In addition to the digital display that will display error codes to help you track down any problems in your braking system, the Primus will also auto level, which makes it easier to install and operate.

I've linked you to the instructions for the brake controller install kit and to an install video showing the kit being used to install a brake controller on a 2003 Sport Trac.

expert reply by: Mike L

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