Universal 7-Way and Brake Controller for Vehicle Towing Travel Trailer
Updated 01/27/2026 | Published 01/13/2026
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Question:
Hello, I need to add a 7-pin RV to my vehicle to use with my travel trailer. Looking to use the 12v to charge batter, brake controller red arc for electric trailer brakes, and reverse lights. I already added CURT 59187 Powered 3-to-2-Wire Splice-in Trailer Tail Light Converter Kit, 4-Pin Wiring Harness works well. Looking for universal 7-pin RV and thought i would ask before making a purchase. Would the Hopkins Vehicle Wiring Harness with 7-Way RV-Style Connector be a good choice? or is there something better?
asked by: David M
Expert Reply:
Hey David! I would stay clear of the Hopkins. Also, it also doesn't have all of the parts you need for installation. Since you already have the Curt 4-way you can use the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller # ETBC7. This has the adapter, wiring, breakers, and everything else you need to upgrade to a 7-way on your vehicle.
If you don't already have the brake controller you can pick up the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty # RED52VR. This comes with the universal wiring harness for installation. It is also worth mentioning that the 12V circuit on the 7-way won't actually charge the battery, just maintain it. If you want to actually charge your battery from the vehicle you need something like the Redarc In-Vehicle BCDC Trailer Battery Charger # RED36TR.
What kind of vehicle do you have?
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Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Accessories and Parts
- Trailer Brake Controller
- Installation Kits
- etrailer
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Robin H.
1/27/2026
Hey David, how did things go with adding the ETBC7 kit to upgrade your vehicle to a 7-way? Did the setup work smoothly with your Redarc brake controller and trailer battery connection? Your update could make it easier for others working on the same wiring upgrade.