Trailer Hitch, Wiring, and Brake Controller for a 2007 Honda Odyssey

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Question:

I realize I forgot to specify my connector and I use a 7-pin connector to connect to the tent trailer. I have no need for a 4-pin flat connector. Does that change my needs in your response? One more question regarding my order. I finally checked the manual for my 2007 Odyssey and it mentions I also need a power steering fluid cooler. Is that something you also recommend? Which product?

asked by: Brian

Expert Reply:

Yes, I will be happy to help add tow options to your 2007 Honda Odyssey. First you will need Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver # 75270. This hitch has a maximum tongue weight rating up to 675 lbs and gross trailer weight rating up to 4,500 lbs. If the towing capacity in your Odyssey owner's manual is lower that the capacity of this hitch, tow according to the weight limits in your manual. There is no drilling required for installation.

Next, you will need 4-way Flat Trailer Connector # 118438. The purpose of this item is to control and allow the basic hookup of the three lighting functions (running, turn, and brake lights) plus one pin is provided for a ground wire. Most standard light duty trailers will use a 4-pole flat connector.

The etrailer.com Ball Mount Kit for 2" Hitches 7,500 lbs # 989900 is an excellent product to consider. It includes two ball mounts, two hitch balls and pin & clips.

Since you are towing a trailer with electric brakes, the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller 7-Way # ETBC7 will work with your Honda Odyssey. This kit includes everything you need to install an electric trailer brake controller and 7-way connector. For full install video I have the link attached.

If you need a brake controller, Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller # 90195 is one of our most popular items. This proportional brake controller will activate your trailer brakes in a proportion to your vehicle's braking action. It'll automatically adjust your trailer's braking based on the deceleration of the tow vehicle and it activates immediately so there's no pausing like with your time delay brake controllers. It does have an automatic leveling ability because there's an internal sensor on the inside which will detect deceleration even if the controller is not mounted flat.

I checked a manual for a Honda Odyssey and it did mention install an additional ATF (automatic transmission fluid) cooler to help prevent the transmission from overheating, and damaging. Check with your owners manual to confirm.

One of our most popular cooler combinations is the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets, # D13502. This fan measures 11" Wide x 7-1/4" tall x 7/8" deep. if you have enough room to mount this cooler, this would be a great option for you.

expert reply by: Timothy G

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Brian

5/22/2018

Timothy G.

5/31/2018

If your van does not have a 4-Way flat already you will be required to add one because it plugs into the # ETBC7 to provide the lights to the 7-Way. Adding coolers like a power steering fluid cooler and a transmission fluid cooler will help prolong the life of those components. The power steering fluid cooler I recommend is part # D13200. This is a 2-pass cooler that measures 12-5/8 X 2-1/2 X 3/4 inches. This includes the hose, clamps, and mounting hardware needed for installation. I have attached a drawing that shows how a power steering cooler is typically installed. Another option is instead of getting 2 separate coolers you could get a combination cooler like # D15902 and use one part for transmission fluid and the other power steering fluid (instead of engine oil).