Ford licensed TBC Install Instructions

[Willcuts93]

I have not yet installed one but I finally got my hands on the instructions that come with it... They suck by the way.

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[Msfitoy]

I have not yet installed one but I finally got my hands on the instructions that come with it... They suck by the way.

Cool thanks for posting...how much is this controller?

 

[Willcuts93]

Cool thanks for posting...how much is this controller?

Part Number: VKB3Z-2C006-A MSRP $339.
levittownfordparts.com has it for $272.90
For comparison the Redarc tow pro elite goes for $208.16 on amazon.

 

[Msfitoy]

Part Number: VKB3Z-2C006-A MSRP $339.
levittownfordparts.com has it for $272.90
For comparison the Redarc tow pro elite goes for $208.16 on amazon.

Oh...are they the same part?

 

[Willcuts93]

Oh...are they the same part?

The ford one is a tow pro elite with an additional magic box from Lumen that ties into the chmsl for AEB function.

 

[Msfitoy]

The ford one is a tow pro elite with an additional magic box from Lumen that ties into the chmsl for AEB function.

Is the chmsl necessary if you're towing since it'll be blocked anyway by the trailer box? What is AEB? Thanks...

 

[DrSafety]

Is the chmsl necessary if you're towing since it'll be blocked anyway by the trailer box? What is AEB? Thanks...

AEB = Automatic Emergency Braking. For the trailer brakes to operate when AEB is activated, yes it is necessary.

Also $261.03 from Varsity Ford.

 

[Msfitoy]

AEB = Automatic Emergency Braking. For the trailer brakes to operate when AEB is activated, yes it is necessary.

Also $261.03 from Varsity Ford.

Gotcha...and thanks for the info...I did shop around and the dealships seem to range from $259 and up...

 

[VAMike]

Wow. There is no way I'm ripping my truck apart that much for a brake controller.

 

[WLFPIR8]

HOLY CRAP they didn't think this out did they...? So, they pre-wire the 4 lines for a normal controller, realized the AEB was gonna be an issue and THIS is the solution.

SO pissed at ford for this crap...

Someone needs to release the other stupid interface box then, so I can add it to my Redarc Pro because there's no way I'm buying it all over again...

UUUGgggghhh.......

 

[Robanno]

VAMike
On the right discussion area now.
With that much involved in putting in this controller, dam, your probably looking at 3+ hrs labor, plus parts. I'm thinking 700+ for the dealer to install. Crap is right!!
If you put in an aftermarket controller using the 4 wires doesnt the trailer control button on dash disable the acc and aeb function.
Trying to figure out this mess Ford created.
Thanks Rob

 

[VAMike]

If you put in an aftermarket controller using the 4 wires doesnt the trailer control button on dash disable the acc and aeb function.

I haven't seen anything to suggest it does. (That said, I'm mostly of the opinion that this isn't a real problem, but that's just an opinion.) Manual says:

Tow Mode

To switch on tow mode, press
the button on the center console
until tow mode is active. The
indicator light illuminates in the instrument
cluster when the system becomes active.
The tow mode feature:
• Moves upshifts to higher engine speeds
to reduce the frequency of
transmission shifting.
• Provides engine braking in all forward
gears, which slows your vehicle and
assists you in controlling your vehicle
when descending a slope.
• Depending on driving conditions and
load conditions, may downshift the
transmission, slow your vehicle and
control your vehicle speed when
descending a hill, without pressing the
accelerator pedal. The amount of
downshift braking provided varies
based upon the amount you press the
brake pedal.
The tow mode feature improves
transmission operation when towing a
trailer or a heavy load. All transmission
gear ranges are available when using tow
mode.
To switch off the tow mode feature and
return to normal driving mode, press the
button on the center console twice. The
indicator light turns off when the system
turns off. Tow mode also turns off when
you power down your vehicle.

 

[Robanno]

I haven't seen anything to suggest it does. (That said, I'm mostly of the opinion that this isn't a real problem, but that's just an opinion.) Manual says:

Thanks, thought I read it did. Probably from one of these threads.
Rob

 

[gbritt89]

HOLY CRAP they didn't think this out did they...? So, they pre-wire the 4 lines for a normal controller, realized the AEB was gonna be an issue and THIS is the solution.

SO pissed at ford for this crap...

Someone needs to release the other stupid interface box then, so I can add it to my Redarc Pro because there's no way I'm buying it all over again...

UUUGgggghhh.......

My thoughts exactly I had bought a redarc off etrailer prior to seeing the ford remarks about safety features and the necessity therein of the unit supplied with the interface for the CHMSL. Would've been awesome to just pay the 70$ difference to have the wiring set for it available through parts. Just my 2 cents but If you are comfortable towing without using your automatic cruise as it seems you have a Lariat I wouldn't loose any sleep over it. I have an XL with STX package and am able to disable the AEB but with this kit will not bother doing so as it states "AEB does not interact or affect the trailer brakes but it does change the location in the vehicle where the brake signal for the Tow-Pro Elite can be sourced".. I currently have my truck ripped apart to install the ford branded kit. Only thing I have left to do is access the CHMSL and make the two connections, piece my truck back together and make the power connections. Should be done tomorrow.

 

[Fjsteven]

You would think there is a much easier place to get that signal from. I’m not an expert though.

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