cant seem to find trailer brake controller connector

[77vettejeff]

I have a 2000 explorer with tow package and cannot fond the connector for the trailer brake controller. I bought the hopkins controller and wiring adapter. But cannot find the connector under the dash on the driver side as the hopkins instruction show. Oddly, i see a connector that is brown and looks like the correct one but, it has a mating connector already connected. Any help would be appreciated. thanks

 

[Mbrooks420]

The tow package doesn’t include a brake controller harness in the second gens. All it includes is a transmission cooler, 3.73 limited slip, and the harness plug in for the flat 4 connector up under the truck by the tail lights.

 

[77vettejeff]

thanks, that's all i have. ill wire the brake controller accordingly.

 

[BUXTER]

explorer relay pictures - Bing images

I'll add that on mine there is a "Trailer Tow Relay" in Box under MAF - Along with a couple other Relays - Not sure what it does but its there.

 

[77vettejeff]

thanks, ill take a look to see if I have the same. Otherwise Ill install a breaker. Have you towed close to max load with your Merc? If so, how did it handle?

 

[Mbrooks420]

I’ve towed 7-8000 pounds of stone fairly short distances, and it pulled it okay. Surely wasn’t winning any races, but it wasn’t as bad as I expected. I surely wouldn’t pull that much without trailer brakes, but set up properly it’ll tow it’s full capacity well.

What and how far are you planning to tow?

 

[77vettejeff]

thanks for the reply. I have a drag car and a car hauler i use to go to local race track about 1 hour's drive. I estimate Im currently pulling about 4000lbs. Im looking at some enclosed trailers that weigh about 3000-3500lbs. So, with the weight of my car Id be at about 6500lbs. I currently do not use a weight distributing hitch but would with the enclosed trailer.

 

[GLOCKer]

thanks for the reply. I have a drag car and a car hauler i use to go to local race track about 1 hour's drive. I estimate Im currently pulling about 4000lbs. Im looking at some enclosed trailers that weigh about 3000-3500lbs. So, with the weight of my car Id be at about 6500lbs. I currently do not use a weight distributing hitch but would with the enclosed trailer.

Keep in mind tools, tires, fuel, etc...

 

[77vettejeff]

yes, probably another 300 lbs in tools, jack, stands. I should buy another truck!