Adding a 7-Way Trailer Connector to a 2020 Ford Explorer Without Factory Tow Package

Published 11/20/2019

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(112)

$216.35

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

(62)

$61.62

Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(1782)

$279.95

Curt Easy Mount Bracket for 4- or 5-Way Flat and 6- or 7-Way Trailer Connectors - 2" Hitch

(149)

$27.90

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

(3417)

$134.79

7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires

(342)

$97.91

Question:

I already have the etrailer e29YR hitch on my 2020 Explorer for a bike rack but now but I want to add a 7 pin trailer connector for towing. I don't have a factory tow package (obviously) What do you have that will work for me?

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

To add a 7-Way to your 2020 Ford Explorer you first need the T-One # 118599 to add the basic trailer light functions. This tees in behind your tail lights and then draws power directly from your vehicle battery. Then for the 7-Way you also need the Universal Wiring Kit # ETBC7 which connects to the T-One and then has some wiring that is routed to the front of your Explorer.

Since you have the etrailer Trailer Hitch # e29YR installed on your Explorer you'll need to use the Curt Mounting Bracket # C58000 to hold the 4-Way and 7-Way connectors next to the receiver.

Typically, when a 7-Way is being added to a vehicle it's because the trailer has brakes that need to be activated by a brake controller. If this is the case, then I actually recommend installing the Wiring Kit # ETBC7L instead (which doesn't come with wiring for a standard brake controller that installs in your cab) and using the Curt Echo # C51180 because it simply plugs in at the 7-Way and has settings that you adjust via Apple or Android smart device app. When you aren't towing, the Echo can easily be removed and stored inside the vehicle.

Attached are some review videos that you can reference.