Full Towing Set Up For A 2023 Ford Maverick Towing A Single Axle Trailer With Electric Brakes
Updated 01/08/2026 | Published 01/06/2026 >
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Question:
I have a 2023 Maverick 2wd gas engine with 2.0L eco boost. I live in California. My family wants me to come and pick up a Scotty 130 trailer 1-axle in Texas. I don’t have a hitch on the truck yet. What exactly do I need? I heard I need a hitch, 7-pin connector, brake controller etc. But I want to know for sure since I’m not an expert.
asked by: Jennifer S
Expert Reply:
Hi Jennifer!
We can definitely get your 2023 Ford Maverick set up to tow a Scotty 130 single axle trailer. You will want to start with the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # C84BR. This is a bolt on, American made hitch that will be a pretty quick and easy install. The 2" receiver means you will have a lot of options available for accessories down the road as well.
For the wiring, you will want to start with the Tekonsha T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector # TK53VR. This will get the lights on a trailer functioning and can then be upgraded to a 7-way. I have two options for that listed below, but I will admit to being preferable to the hardwired option as I think they just work better and I like to use my phone as a phone (plus having your phone out is illegal in some states).
Wireless:
7-Way RV Upgrade Kit for Trailer Brake Controller Installation - 12 Gauge Wires # ETBC7L
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional # C51180
Manual Override Button for Curt Echo Brake Controller # C83HR (optional, though recommended)
Hardwired:
Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires # ETBC7
Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional # RED52VR
I included quick diagrams for both options and the hardwired one will be a little more work, but I think it's worth it. The Redarc controller has worked better in my experience and once installed, all you will see is the control knob. This means it's a nice clean look. You will likely need to drill a small hole in your dash though.
The last things you will need, if you don't already have them, is a ball mount, a hitch ball, and a pin/clip to hold the ball mount in place. I have options for all these listed below, but I couldn't find anywhere saying what size ball is needed for the coupler on the Scotty 130. It is either a 1-7/8" or a 2", so I included options for both. You will want to confirm the ball size with your family before going to pick it up.
Curt Ball Mount for 2" Hitches - 3/4" Rise, 2" Drop - 10-1/4" Long - 7,500 lbs # D-4
Curt 1-7/8" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 3,500 lbs # C40002
Curt 2" Hitch Ball - 1" Diameter x 2-1/8" Long Shank - Chrome - 6,000 lbs # C40004
Curt Pin and Clip for 2" and 2-1/2" Hitches - 5/8" Diameter x 3-3/16" Span # C21500
Have you towed a trailer before?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller - 7-Way Plug-in w/ Bluetooth App - Up to 2 Axles - Proportional
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Proportional Controller
- Electric
- Plug-In
- Smartphone App
- Under-Dash
- Up to 2 Axles
- Smartphone Display
- Multiple Trailers
- CURT
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
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Jennifer S.
1/7/2026
Thank you so much! I shared this with the guys in my family who will do the installation. No, I haven’t towed a trailer before.