Parts Needed to Install a 7-way Trailer Connector and Tow a Trailer with a 2009 Toyota Tacoma

Updated 09/08/2020 | Published 03/07/2017

Products Featured in This Question

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

(403)

$51.05

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(378)

$168.70

Adapter 4-Pole to 7-Pole and 4-Pole

(663)

$31.52

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

(2776)

$158.63

B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 5" Drop, 5-1/2" Rise - 7.5K - Black

(4657)

$269.00

Blue Ox Trailer Hitch Receiver Lock for 2" Hitches

(196)

$34.94

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

(3417)

$134.68

Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-1/4" Span

(895)

$16.14

Question:

I have a 2009 Toyota Tacoma pickup with the 4 cylinder engine. It is the plain cab model with no extra features. Anyway, I have a trailer that has the round 7-blade type connector and I seem to be unable to find any wiring harness that will fit this kind of connector available to fit the truck. All of the truck harness assemblies I have found so far are the flat four connection type. I would hope to be able to have a harness with the female part of a 7 blade connector hanging from the back bumper area. There is no pre-existing connector on the truck. Is there any way I can do this?

asked by: Tom H

Expert Reply:

Yes, you can install a 7-way trailer connector on your 2009 Toyota Tacoma. There's a couple of options depending on your trailer.

First you're going to need to start with a 4-way flat connector like you've already found. I suggest the Curt # C55513 which plugs into your truck's wiring either behind the taillights or the rear bumper.

Once you have the 4-way, if your trailer does not have brakes you can use an adapter, # 37185, to go from the 4-way to provide a 7-way. However, installing it this way will only give you the same functions as a 4-way: stop, turn signals, and running lights.

For a fully functional 7-way connector because your trailer has brakes you'll need to use our # ETBC7 kit to use the 4-way you installed and provide a fully functioning 7-way. This will include everything you need to install an electric brake controller as well.

If you need a brake controller I suggest the Prodigy P2 # 90885. I've linked a video that shows the # ETBC7 kit being installed into a 2009 Tacoma with a different controller, but the install process will be the same with the P2.

The trailer hitch receiver, if your truck doesn't already have one, is the Curt # 13323. This will bolt onto your Tacoma and all the hardware is included.

You'll also need a ball mount. I've linked our selection that will fit the 2 inch hitch receiver as well as an article to help you determine the correct rise or drop you need. I like the B&W Tow & Stow # BWTS10038B which will provide up to 5 inches of drop or 5-1/2 inches of rise. It also features the ability to flip over under the hitch and out of the way when not in use. To lock the ball mount to our hitch use # BX8858 or for a standard pin and clip use # PC3.

expert reply by: Charles S

Ronnie J.

9/5/2020

What do I need for a 2014 Tacoma pre runner.what harness do I need,and I need a 7 round outlet and electric brakes set up.

Jon G.

9/8/2020

If your 2014 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner doesn't have a factory 7-Way trailer connector then you need the T-One # 118496, the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7, and then a brake controller like the Prodigy P2 # 90885 that Charles referenced above.