Recommended Brake Controller and Installation on 2021 Toyota RAV4

Updated 09/15/2021 | Published 09/13/2021

Products Featured in This Question

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

(858)

$74.73

Universal Mounting Panel for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controller Control Knob

(359)

$13.00

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

(3401)

$101.73

Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller - Dash Knob - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional

(2518)

$190.00

Universal Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers

(420)

$27.00

Tekonsha Primus IQ Trailer Brake Controller - Up to 3 Axles - Proportional

(2159)

$90.04

Question:

Hello, Going to install a hitch, either Curt or Draw-Tite, on the above vehicle. I am also installing wiring part number Curt C56434. I could use some help in finding a brake controller and figuring out how to convert the flat 4 pin connector over to a 7 pin on the trailer. The trailer is a single axle weighing dry at 1200 lbs. I would assume I need an adapter of some type to connect to power side of the brake controller to the 7 pin trailer plug. Any advice or options would be helpful. Thank you for the assistance. Tom

asked by: Tom

Expert Reply:

I'd be happy to assist you with that.

First, you'll want to choose a brake controller. You could go with a traditionally mounted brake controller like the Tekonsha Primus, part # TK90160. This controller would work perfectly for you, as long as you don't mind having the controller mounted to the underside of the dash to the right of the steering wheel, within easy reach of the driver. Some folks don't care for the appearance of a traditional style brake controller and prefer a remote mounted model like the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty, part # RED24FR. The Tow-Pro Liberty installs so that the control unit is out of sight under the dash while you control the braking action with a small control knob that can be installed on the dash or the console using an unused switch knockout or a mounting bezel like part # 331-TPSI-001. You will also need the # RED69FR wiring pigtail.

To install the controller, we actually have an # ETBC7 kit that includes all the parts you'll need to complete the installation. An adapter that will convert the 4 pole provided by the # C56434 harness to a 7-way as well as all the wire, hardware and circuit breakers needed are all provided in the kit.

I've linked to some videos that explain how the controllers mentioned above work, as well as to a video explaining how the brake controller installation kit is installed.