Recommended 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller for a 1996 Dodge Ram w/out Factory Connectors

Updated 08/20/2023 | Published 08/19/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Tekonsha Prodigy P3 Trailer Brake Controller - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional

(6581)

$158.69

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

(92)

$38.73

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

(3349)

$109.28

Question:

96 dodge ram 1500 with NO factory wiring harness for trailer lights/brakes. What do I need to add a 7 pole connector AND brake controller. Your previous answers refer to a truck WITH a 4 prong factory wiring harness already installed. Im starting from scratch....what to I need?

asked by: Bill C

Helpful Expert Reply:

To install a 7-Way harness on your 1996 Dodge Ram without the factory connector, you will need two separate wiring harnesses because they don't make just one that'll do the job.

The first harness you'll need is the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
Item # C55329. This custom-fit T-connector plugs into your Dodge's wiring harness, which is located behind the rear bumper, on the driver's and passenger's sides. This will provide you with a 4-flat connector.

The second harness you will need is the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller item # ETBC7. The kit includes a pre-wired 7- and 4-way trailer connector that mounts easily at the rear of your truck with an included bracket. This kit is designed for use on a vehicle with an existing 4-way flat trailer connector and plugs directly into it.

To add a brake controller, I recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P3 item # 90195. This is a proportional brake controller that activates your trailer's brakes based on the deceleration of your truck's braking action. The brakes activate immediately, there is no pausing like with time-delayed brake controllers.

I have linked installation videos to all three of these parts below to help you get them set up.