Parts Needed for 2014 Ford F-150 to Tow Trailer with Electric Brakes

Question:

I own a 2014 F150 Crew Cab and would like to install a brake controller and everything else I need to pull a utility trailer with electric brakes. Can you point me in the right direction?

asked by: Joe D

Expert Reply:

We have everything needed to equip your 2014 Ford F-150 so that it can tow your utility trailer and power its electric brakes.

The exact parts you need will depend a bit on what is already installed on your truck. Starting at the rear bumper, if you just have a 4-Way connector (and not a 7-Way round connector), I recommend using the Universal Installation Kit # ETBC7 to install a fully functional 7-Way. This kit also includes the additional wiring needed to install a trailer brake controller.

I have attached a great article that details the installation steps for this kit that you might find helpful.

If you already have a 7-Way connector installed at the rear of your F-150, then you are all set at the bumper and you won't need to add any other connector or wiring kit.

Then, for the trailer brake controller itself, I highly recommend the Tekonsha Prodigy P2 # 90885. This is an excellent proportional controller that will activate the brakes on your trailer at the same time and with the same intensity that you apply to them in your truck. It features an easy-to-read digital display, 3 boost levels, and continuous diagnostics that will alert you to any potential issues.

Whether your truck started out with just the 4-Way or it already has the 7-Way connector, you will just need the Plug-In Adapter # 22292 to install the controller itself. One end of the adapter will plug into the brake controller, while the other end will hook right up to the factory port beneath the dash in your F-150.

This gives you everything needed to connect the electrical components of your truck and trailer and power/control its brakes and signal lights.

If you do not yet have a trailer hitch installed, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III # 75691. This custom hitch will use existing holes in the truck's frame for a no-drill installation. It will provide you with a 2 inch receiver opening and it features a 6,000 pound towing weight capacity. You will also want to check the owner's manual for your truck to verify its specific capacities, as you will need to follow whichever limit is lower (the truck's or hitch's).

Finally, you will need a ball mount and hitch ball to pull the trailer. I have attached an article that explains exactly how to choose the best one for your setup in order to tow the trailer level, along with a link that will take you to our available selection. I have also included a couple articles on towing a trailer that you might find helpful.