Which Wiring Harness Do I Need for a 2017 Ford Explorer  

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The wiring harness you'll need won't be affected by the actual hitch, but will instead depend on the trailers you plan on towing with your 2017 Ford Explorer. If you're going to be towing a trailer without brakes, then the Tekonsha # 118540 will provide you with the harness you need. This is designed for Explorers that did not come with the factory tow package and will tee into the wiring at the rear of the vehicle on the passenger side.

If you'll be towing a trailer with brakes, then I recommend the Curt # C56306 which will give you a 7 way trailer connector. In addition to a 7 way, you will also need a brake controller; for that I recommend using the Curt Echo # C51180 since it will simply plug into your 7 way and provide you with proportional braking that can be controlled by your smart phone (iOS 8.0 or newer/Android 4.4 or newer required).

Any of these hitches would work well with the etrailer # e98867 hitch for your 2017 Ford Explorer. You may also need a ball mount and hitch ball to complete your towing package; an adjustable ball mount like the B&W Tow & Stow 2-Ball Mount - 2" Hitch - 5" Drop, 5-1/2" Rise - 10K - Black # BWTS10037B is one of my favorites if you're not sure what rise/drop you might need, tow more than one trailer or may get a new trailer at some point. I've also linked our entire selection of ball mounts and hitch balls, as well as a helpful article we did on how to measure to determine what rise/drop you might need on your ball mount.

There are also some installation videos of the parts mentioned for you to check out.

expert reply by: Erik B

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