Parts Needed to Install Redarc RED24FR Tow-Pro Brake Controller on 2021 Subaru Outback
Updated 06/10/2021 | Published 06/08/2021
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Question:
I have a 2021 Subaru Outback Onyx XT. I installed the factory trailer hitch and the wimpy 4-pin harness that came with it. Everything is OEM and in accordance with factory specs and instructions. Thats my starting point. I need help sifting through the abundance of parts and very helpful but overwhelming information you have on your site. I watched the very detailed video on the 2020 install and confirmed its pretty straight forward and well within my capability. Im ready to get started but can you please identify all the specific parts/kits I need? Heres what I thinkfoot I need: 1 4-pin to 7-pin harness/adapter, however, will a 4-pin plug also be usable after the install? 2 Regarding the Brake controller. a Do you have a Subaru specific harness or will I need the Universal? b Do you have a Subaru specific switch plate? I have a blank one as shown in your video and can certainly modify mine as shown but if you have a specific one Id use that instead. b Im not a fan of leaving the circuit breaker terminals exposed as shown in your video. Do you have a small mounting box or those cool rubber covers for them? 3 The install shows a direct connect to the battery. Doesnt that mean power is always supplied to the controller and trailer plug even when ignition is off? If so, is there a way to install so its off when ignition is off? 4 I would also want to use all water-proof butt-connectors like in the video. Do you include/sell those as well? what and how many would I need? I look forward to your expert guidance. Many thanks in advance.
asked by: Paul H
Helpful Expert Reply:
To convert your existing 4 pole trailer connector into a 7-way, and to install a brake controller you'll need our Brake Controller Installation Kit, part # ETBC7. The kit includes an adapter which will convert the existing 4 pole into a 7-way while also providing a functional 4 pole connector as well. Unfortunately, your Subaru Outback isn't pre-wired for a brake controller, so you'd need to use the # ETBC7 universal kit.
Also included is all the wire, hardware and circuit breakers needed for a successful installation.
We don't offer a Subaru-specific bezel for the control knob but a universal model is available as part # 331-TPSI-007, or you could modify the switch knockout as shown in the video.
We don't offer rubber or vinyl caps for the circuit breaker terminals, you could probably find them at an auto parts store, but I'd simply use liquid electrical tape like part # SWC50122.
The controller is directly installed to the vehicle battery. This is done for safety purposes. The fear is that if a controller had an on/off switch, the user could forget to turn on the controller when towing. After several minutes of inactivity, a brake controller like the Redarc Tow-Pro # RED24FR Liberty would go into a sleep mode. The amount of power drawn when in sleep mode is so small that the vehicle could be left unattended for months before the battery would be drained.
We do indeed offer heat shrink butt-connectors as part # DW05745-5 for a quantity of 5 or # DW05745-10 for a quantity of 10.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Electric over Hydraulic
- Plug-In
- Dash-Mounted Knob
- Behind-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Indicator Lights
- Single Trailer Only
- Redarc
more information >
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