Adding a 7-Way Connector and Brake Controller to a 2018 Ford F-150 with Factory 4-Way

Question:

Hi , I have a 2018 Ford F-150XL 100a package with factory installed 4 pin trailer connector. Want to add 7-way and brake controller plus a 12V trailer battery charge line. Engine compartment fuse box slots for trailer brake power and 12V trailer battery charge do have metal contacts installed. Is there already Factory wiring/outlet installed to just plug in a 7-way? If yes, where is the location? If not, what is the path of least resistance to accomplish this.

asked by: Ken S

Expert Reply:

I will be happy to get your 2018 Ford F-150 set up with a 7-Way trailer connector and a brake controller. The method for doing so that requires the fewest parts is to hardwire in the brake controller/7-Way. Since your truck already has a factory 4-Way connector you will just need # ETBC7 to add a 7-Way, retain the 4-Way, and have the parts needed to install a brake controller as well as run a 12 volt hot lead.

If you do not already have a brake controller picked out I recommend the P2 # 90885 because it is easy to set up, easy to use, and it is reliable. I have included some links that show and explain the ETBC7 installation for you.

It is possible that, where your 4-Way plugs into another harness under the vehicle, the wiring for a brake controller and other circuits for a 7-Way is already ran. There is no guarantee that it is but it is possible. If so then you would be able to plug in # 118283 and insert the necessary fuses and relays (which you might need to obtain from Ford) to make the 7-Way functional.

Then to install the brake controller you would need harness # 22292 where it will connect to the controller on one end and the truck's brake controller plug on the other end. But, if the factory brake controller plug does not have power running to it you would also need power wire kit # BRK-ELECKIT to provide power to the controller. I have linked a video showing an example installation for you.

Because there are so many unknowns about this second method I recommend going with the first installation recommendation and using the ETBC7.