Installation of 6-Way Brake Controller Kit # ETBC6 on 2008 Toyota RAV4

Updated 09/03/2014 | Published 08/31/2014

Products Featured in This Question

Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 6-Way and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires

(9)

$61.51

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

(287)

$60.08

Question:

installed a Curt T-connector set successfully. am trying to install a ETCB6 brake controller wiring adapter on an 08 Toyota Rav4, but ETCB6 came with installation instructions for ETCB7. I tried anyway, thinking I could adapt by ignoring the backup lights and paying attention to a 6-pin diagram. No such luck- according to my multimeter, the ground and 12v aux pins seem to be reversed, and the two turn signal pins are getting only 5v. other issues exist, but are too hard to write out here. Interestingly the 4 pin on the ETCB6 is wired correctly as is the Curt 4pin T connect set, so something seems amiss with the ETBC6s white ground, blue brake signal, and red 12v aux wires. can you provide instructions for the ETCB6? any suggestions on where Ive gone wrong? thanks.

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

I suggest you first test your 4-pole installation by applying your grounded circuit tester to the three pins on the 4-pole. Check that the connectors are clean and free of discoloration and corrosion; make sure they're seated together fully and locked into place. Make sure the 12V power wire from the battery is solidly connected to the black wire for the harness. If this connector delivers the appropriate signal voltages at the stop/turn and running light pins then move on to checking your # ETBC6 installation.

If the 4-pole does not deliver the correct voltages then you need to test the wiring that carries signals from the vehicle into the T-connector's left-side inputs. If you are reading correct input signals going to the module but not coming out of it, then the unit is bad and needs to be replaced.
The correct Curt T-Connector 4-pole for your 2008 RAV4 is # C56165.

I have linked an article with troubleshooting tips for 4-pole installations.

expert reply by: Adam R