Installation of a Trailer Brake Controller on a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500

Published 09/22/2009

Products Featured in This Question

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

(3397)

$121.19

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

(274)

$36.84

Question:

Is a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 pre-wired for the installation of electronic trailer brake control?

asked by: Melvin

Expert Reply:

If your 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 had a tow package with a 7-Way connector from the factory, then your truck is pre-wired and will have a port underneath the dash to attach a brake controller.

If the truck came with a 4-Way connector tow package, it will also have a port under the dash. You will have to add a 7-way connector at the rear, and run the brake wire and any other accessory wiring you need for your trailer. Our Brake Controller 7 and 4 Way Installation Kit, item # ETBC7, includes all the wire, connectors, circuit breakers and other parts needed to do a professional looking install.

If your truck does not have any factory tow wiring installed then you will need the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness, item # 118329, in addition to the above mentioned 7 and 4 way installation kit. You will need to hardwire the brake controller to the correct vehicle circuits. The Red wire will need to be wired to the stop light switch coming from the brake pedal switch, the black wire will need to be wired to 12 volt power, the white wire is grounded and the blue wire is the trailer brake feed that goes to the 7-way vehicle end connector.

expert reply by: Patrick B