Recommended 7-Way Wiring and a Brake Controller for a 2013 Ford Van
Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 09/09/2025
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Question:
I need an electric brake system for a 2013 ford E350 xlt van. No factory setting that I knownof
asked by: Glenn P
Expert Reply:
Hey Glenn. To add a 7-way connector and a brake controller to your 2013 Ford E-350 you'll first need to have a 4-way. If your van doesn't have one you'll want the Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness item # C56020. This custom fit wiring Harness connects to your Ford van's existing wiring behind the tail lights.
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 E-350 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.
You will then connect the blue wire to the blue wire on the brake controller, connect the black wire to the positive post on your Ford's battery, the white wire to a suitable ground, and the yellow wire to the accessory circuit. This will provide you with the ability to control your trailer's brakes and also provide you with a 12v power wire for you trailer's battery.
For a brake controller, I recommend the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller item # RED52VR. This is a proportional brake controller that will engage your trailer's brakes when your van decelerates. It activates immediately and is not time delayed. The Tow-Pro Liberty has a unique installation method that allows you to mount the main control unit out of sight behind your dash. The only part visible is the control knob. This means no bulky controller to bang your knee on while driving. The included universal harness will be all you need to complete the install.
What kind of trailer are you going to be pulling?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Custom Fit Vehicle Wiring
- Trailer Hitch Wiring
- Vehicle End Connector
- No Converter
- No Tow Package
- 4 Flat
- Plug and Lead
- Plug-In
- Hidden
- CURT
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Continue Researching
- Q&A: How to Use a Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller on a Vehicle w/a 4-Way Connector
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Add 7-Way Connector To 2011 Ford E-350 Without Factory Towing Package
- Article: Brake Controller Installation on a Ford Full-Size Van
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Q&A: Parts Needed To Add 7-Way Trailer Wiring And Brake Controller To 2014 Ford F350 Van
- Q&A: What Do I Need to Install a Brake Controller on My 2013 Ford E-350 Without Factory Connector
- Q&A: Installing a Brake Controller on a 2014 Ford E-350 Van
- Q&A: Parts Needed to Add 4-Way and 7-Way to 2013 Ford E350
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- Article: Wiring Trailer Lights with a 4-Way Plug (It's Easier Than You Think)
- Article: What Do I Need To Tow A Trailer?
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Jerred H.
9/29/2025
Hey Glenn, did the installation of the brake controller and wiring kit go smoothly for your Ford van? I'm curious to know how it worked out for you, as it could help others looking to set up a similar system.