Recommended 7-Way Connector And Trailer Brake Controller For 2018 Ford Explorer Without Tow Package

Updated 02/26/2021 | Published 02/22/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector

(48)

$69.70

Mounting Bracket for 7-Way

(529)

$9.39

No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket - Short

(1180)

$21.57

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

(1769)

$279.95

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

(743)

$177.75

Question:

I am trying to self install a 7 pin trailer plug, and a brake controller on my 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. The vehicle DID NOT come with factory tow package. I am unsure what all parts I would need to accomplish this. I do like the hidden modules like the Redarc and Curt products. Your help would be highly appreciates.

asked by: Casey B

Expert Reply:

I would be happy to recommend everything you will need to add a 7-way connector and trailer brake controller to your 2018 Ford Explorer Limited without the factory tow package.

Starting with the 7-way connector I recommend the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way Trailer Connector # C56306 which will plug into the factory trailer connector ports underneath the bumper on the passenger side of the vehicle.

When we did this install on a similar 2017 Ford Explorer we used the Mounting Bracket for 7-Way # 18138 to mount the 7-way connector to the trailer hitch receiver. If your trailer hitch receiver does not have the provision for the bracket you will also need the No-Drill Mount for Electrical Mounting Bracket # 18140.

Moving on to the trailer brake controller I recommend the Curt Echo Wireless Trailer Brake Controller # C51180 due to it plug directly into the 7-way connector which will not require you to drill any holes inside of your vehicle to mount the trailer brake controller, and since it can be removed and used in any vehicle with a functioning 7-way connector if needed.

If you do not already have a trailer hitch receiver I recommend taking a look at the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e98867.

I included videos for each of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.