Brake Controller - Prewired???

[Wesmertz]

I have a 2021 Xl STX FX4 with the towing package. I just bought a 7x16 tandem axle trailer with brakes on both axles (using a 7pin connector). My truck has a 7 pin plug (hence the towing package), and my understanding is there should be either a bundle of wires or a plug under the dash so as to plug in a brake controller.

Questions:

1- do I have a harness with a plug?
2- or do I have some wires I can connect to?

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[Frenchy]

@Grumpaw will have the best answer for this, but if I remember correctly you will have a small bundle of wires under the dash to connect to.

That said if you don't have a trailer brake controller yet, I highly recommend the RedArc Trailer Brake Controller. You can take time to decide between the Elite and Liberty model. Both are designed and made in Australia. Those who have it love it!

 

[Wesmertz]

Per the size of the dial, this is precisely the controller I want. The video I see are filmed in Australia, and that have to run all kinds of wires to the plug on the back of the truck. I’m in America and I think mine are already run to the dash from the 7 pin connector. Looking for confirmation before I dig in.

 

[Frenchy]

With the RedArc Trailer Brake Controller you only need to run wires to the back of the vehicle if there are no provisions. Thankfully the Ranger already has said provisions. This allows you to choose any Trailer Brake Controller you want. If not mistaken you will have a bundle of 4-5 wires under the dash. 4 will be connected to the Trailer Brake Controller. There will also be a harness that goes in-between the controller and the knob(for the RedArc of course). If you are capable then you can easily knock it out in a few hours. Just make sure to take your time and plan carefully.

 

[Grumpaw]

Big wire bundle under dash to the left of the brake pedal.
There are 4 wires with cut ends that are taped to the bundle....usually with a piece of blue tape. These are the 4 wires that connect to the brake control.
Wire colors are white/blue/white-purple/yellow-red.
White connects to ground on controller
Blue connects to blue brake output wire on controller
White/purple connects to red brake input wire on controller
Yellow/red connects to 12 volt black power wire on controller

The 4 wires on the controller are the same color/function no matter the brand of controller...its an industry standard.

 

[Blue Streak]

This is the photo of mine when I cut them from the bundle. The black tape upper left center is where they where taped together. Mine is a 2019.

 

[Blue Streak]

I also mounted mine in the 12v power port hole like others have done. Saves from tearing out the console.

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