Electric brake control

Rick. · 05-08-2018, 03:36 PM

I'm looking to install an electric brake controller in my 2018 Forester 2801 and I'm not sure what's needed, I purchased the TEKONSHA P3 controller. I'm using this for a motorcycle trailer 6x10 with tandem axes and electric brake setup. Has anyone used an electric brake controller for something they are towing? Thank you in advance,

bergy · 05-08-2018, 04:04 PM

I use a Tekonsha P3 to tow my Ultra Lite 21DS. It works just find. You'll probably need to adjust it for the travel trailer, but you can store settings for multiple (at least 3) trailers.

clr · 05-08-2018, 04:18 PM

Well the parts you need depend upon several items. Does your Forester has the tow haul package installed. If it does then you already have the wiring to a trailer plug either 4, 6 or 7 pins. If you have the wiring then you will only have to plug in the controller to the existing wiring behind the dash. They make a harness for most trucks that plug into the tow haul wiring and then into the P3. So no need to build the wiring.

If you do not have tow haul option you may have no trailer wiring plugs at the rear of the unit. If you have no plugs you will have to build and connect the wires one at a time and run some of them all the way to the back of the vehicle.

Rick. · 05-08-2018, 04:33 PM

Yes, hello thank you- it came with the tow package and class III hitch just was not sure it just plugs in with Ford E450 wire harness? I guess the plug is located somewhere behind all that wiring? I ordered the harness that comes with the unit from the P3.

David N Dianna · 05-08-2018, 04:37 PM

I just installed the same brake unit in my 03 dodge.
And it truly is a plug and play unit.

Rick. · 05-08-2018, 04:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by David L

I just installed the same brake unit in my 03 dodge.
And it truly is a plug and play unit.

Thank you that's great news for me.....

clr · 05-08-2018, 04:42 PM

Well I know that with a Ford the trailer brake controller wiring is attached to a dummy plate that is designed to hold change. You just have to remove the plate and unplug the gray connector for the brake controller wiring.

They make a harness for the F450 that plugs directly into the P3, so I would also buy this harness to make the job easy if you have not done so yet.

Duckogram · 05-08-2018, 04:47 PM

I used the Prodigy in my F250. It worked flawlessly. As I recall, the wiring harness was was wire tied to the top of the steering column. I have not looked for it on the E-450 but I would guess that its in the same place.

Rick. · 05-08-2018, 05:18 PM

Thank you guys for all the useful information, I do appreciate it.

retireearly · 05-09-2018, 09:08 AM

I have the P3 as well, got a plug and play harness from e-trailer I think. The plug is located behind the coin tray, which is the location for the Ford factory brake control. I drilled out the back of the coin tray pocket and shoved the P3 in there. It sticks out of the dash some, but friction fits in that pocket by the coins. I didn't fasten it down at all, as I switch it between the MH and my pickup truck. No need to buy two.

Rick. · 05-09-2018, 05:29 PM

Would anyone know what harness number to purchase they have a couple and I'm not sure if the 3034-P will work on a 2018 E-450 there listing only goes to 2011 for this item, I see nothing listed for 2018 the Etrailer site or Amazon? Has anyone installed one recently on a newer model Forester?

clr · 05-09-2018, 07:36 PM

The etrailer part number for the harness is 22292. This harness will fit many of the Ford super duties. If you have any problems give them a call they are very helpfull.

Rick. · 05-09-2018, 07:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by clr

The etrailer part number for the harness is 22292. This harness will fit many of the Ford super duties. If you have any problems give them a call they are very helpfull.

Thank you, I'm waiting on Etrailer to return my email on an answer thanks again.

retireearly · 05-10-2018, 06:19 AM

I bought my Tekonsha 3034-P harness from Amazon, less than $12. I think I searched on it by number after doing some research on e-trailer.

timfromma · 05-10-2018, 07:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by David L

I just installed the same brake unit in my 03 dodge.
And it truly is a plug and play unit.

Provided that your truck came pre-wired for it.

llr · 05-10-2018, 07:42 AM

check you owners manual too, My F150 had a relay and fuse to install, they were in the glove box, not sure why they don't just install them.

If you know where the factory brake controller would go the connector should be very close to that, maybe even plugged into a dummy plug near it or on the back of the recess that it would mount in

sportbikenut · 05-10-2018, 07:47 AM

I suggest that you go directly to the Tekonsha website where you can search for the correct parts by vehicle. Or call Tekonsha direct and they will help you. Much better than guessing! The P3 controller is great. I installed one in my Tundra due to the ineffective factory controller.

retireearly · 05-10-2018, 12:18 PM

The OP has a motorhome, it is plug and play with the 3034-P harness. I just did it myself last month for my car dolly brakes.

67L48 · 05-10-2018, 12:49 PM

Tekonsha P3. Still the best one out there. Got a vehicle specific plug-and-play harness for my F150. Easier than falling in love.

Rick. · 05-10-2018, 12:56 PM

lol thanks, hey the tech support from etrailer just got back to me and confirmed that 3034-P is the correct wire harness. Thank you all for your help.

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