Parts Needed To Install Brake Controller On 2014 Ford Explorer Without Factory Tow Package

Question

Question:

I am confused trying to find a trailer brake controller for a 2014 Ford Explorer without a tow package. I dont want to do wire spicing. A friend has a 2015 Explorer and he was able to plug in under the dash and be all set. What options do I have?

asked by: Pam F

0

Expert Reply:

Hello Pam, thanks for reaching out. If you do not have the factory tow package on your 2014 Explorer, it is possible to add a brake controller, but you will have to do some wiring. It sounds like your friends Explorer has the factory tow package, which is why it was plug-and-play. I see that you were looking at the Tekonsha Voyager brake controller. Here are the parts you need to install that on your Explorer without the tow package:

- Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # C56172

- Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires # ETBC7

- Tekonsha Voyager Trailer Brake Controller w/ Plug-In Harness - 1 to 4 Axles - Proportional # TK29ER

That will be everything you need to wire your vehicle with a 4-flat, 7-way and brake controller. Take a look at the install videos I linked below.

I hope this helps. Hit the reply button on this page with any other questions and I am happy to assist.

expert reply by: Jesse M

0

Jesse M.

9/12/2025

Hey Pam, did you have a chance to install the brake controller on your Explorer using the parts I suggested? I'm asking because your experience could really help others in a similar situation.

Pam F.

9/12/2025

@JesseM I did not use the items you suggested. I found a local trailer place and he found the plug in under the dash just as had been told. I bought a controller from him and he installed it no charge. Total of 30 minutes. I was hesitant to buy what you suggested because when I bought the bracket for the 7 pin socket for the hitch, it completely did not fit. So I had to sent back, order something else and pay shipping. Also the instructions for installing the hitch were not correct. Luckily I found a YouTube video that was the correct installation.

Answer 1

All you need is a brake controller and an install harness to install a brake controller in your 2013 Ford Explorer. For a brake controller I would recommend the Prodigy P2 Brake Controller part #90885. This is our best selling brake controller…

view full answer...

Answer 2

The brake controller connector is located directly behind the hood release handle on your 2014 Explorer. Ford typically uses a gray plug, but it might also be a light brown in color. I have confirmed this for certain w/ my Tekonsha representative. If…

view full answer...

Answer 3

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

view full answer...

Answer 4

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 5

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

view full answer...

Answer 6

To install a Redarc Tow Pro Liberty in your 2023 Toyota Tacoma Sport you will need the following parts: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item #RED24FR Plug-and-Play Wiring Harness for Redarc Tow-Pro Trailer Brake Controllers item #RED99FR…

view full answer...

Answer 7

According to Blue Ox, it'll take an experienced installer about 4 to 5 hours to complete the installation of their #BX1128 Base Plate Kit on a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The install isn't what I'd call super-difficult, but the installation…

view full answer...

Answer 8

Hi Paul, you’re definitely on the right track here, and I can help you narrow this down with confidence. With your tandem 3,500 lb Dexter axles and 33 inch spacing, both the Dexter EZ Flex part #K71-652-00 and the Lippert Road Armor part #LC53CK are…

view full answer...

Answer 9

It sounds like you are speaking of the wires for the brake magnets. If this is correct, you will need to connect one of the wires to the brake controller output wire on your trailer connector and the other wire will need to be grounded to a clean…

view full answer...

Answer 10

Even though I cannot comment specifically on the grease you used because I am not familiar with it, I can tell you the best grease for trailer bearings is a a grease with a rating of GC-LB, which just means it is made to withstand very high…

view full answer...

Answer 11

The #84 spindle is just a common way to identify the spindle dimensions typically used for 3,500 lb axles. So instead of listing out the parts, people can just say they have #84 spindles and it's easier to know what fits it. The CE Smith Trailer…

view full answer...

Answer 12

The 5.30-12 tires, being wider, are going to make more contact with the road. This means that the noise, and heat build up will be higher than a 4.80-12 tire but the rolling resistance will actually be less because the tire is larger diameter. The…

view full answer...

Parts Needed To Install Brake Controller On 2014 Ford Explorer Without Factory Tow Package

Products Featured in This Question

Featured Help Information

Miscellaneous Media

Continue Researching