That panel (obviously) opens for the fuse area, using that pull indentation and the distance to the four wires for after-fit brake controller is only a few inches away, coming through the firewall right behind that panel, above the driver's left foot rest. Easy to find as they're taped up with blue tape and capped with shrink tube. That location is merely simplest, easiest, shortest-distance-between-two-points place to mount the button. I installed my controller just to the right of the indented pull. Personal choice of ergonomics.
Pre-launch pictures from Ford had the redarc on the center console, and I personally thought it looked a lot cleaner. Install time from a dealership for something like this tends to be flat rate. Hence my curiosity if the directions from Ford say to put it on the fuse box, or if the installer is taking a short cut. If I were to pay dealer rates for the install I'd want the best possible appearance and wouldn't want to see shortcuts. (Whereas if Ford actually says to put it on the fuse box I guess that's just the way it is now.)
Placed my Redarc on the console. It is super easy to adjust and you can see the LED to make sure it is active.
https://www.ranger5g.com/forum/thre...ontroller-availability.3562/page-7#post-78912Factory/Ford/OEM brake controller installed by the dealer in my 2019 XLT. Part #VKB3Z2C006A. Don't have the trailer yet -- gotta save up some more nickels. And while I'm sure the after-market controllers are OK, I decided to go the factory route. Each to his own.
Another consideration is at at some point in the future when some aspect of the electronics that run the truck irredeemably clusters, Ford can't come back at you and void your warranty because you modified the electrical system.
Did you have a tow screen come up in the display? When you connect, does it turn off the start/stop, Lane assist and adaptive cruise? I'm waiting for better weather to install mine.Me too.... I used it today for the first time to pull a 60 Corvette and had no issues seeing or adjusting the controller.
It initially displayed that a trailer was connected. I hit ok, then followed the owners manual. Trailer is less than 8’2, less than 33 feet (ok boys and girls, fess up. WHO IS PULLING A 34’ TRAILER?!?!?!!!!!). I already had lane keeping shut off and the park aid as well. I did use the tow/trailer mode and hit the up arrow in “D” to see what gear it was using.
Same here, then too, my dealership said that if my truck came with the tow package, that FORD should be covering the cost to install this. Waiting to hear back for confirmation.
Ray what dealership are you working with since you are pretty close to me and if ford pays for yours, I could get West Hills to pay for mind to. my email [email protected] . I also see we have the same color of truck.
