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Brake Controller install

Discussion in 'Towing' started by Cheechotx, Feb 9, 2023.

  1. Feb 9, 2023 at 5:54 PM
    #1
    Cheechotx

    #1
    Cheechotx [OP] New Member

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    Liz
    Fellows, my husband died this past August and I traded in our big 35' travel trailer for a small R Pod 190. It has electric brakes. I want to buy a 4 runner to tow it with. After some reading l
    I have learned that I need a brake controller. Here is the dumb question part....once I buy the brake controller where do I go to have it installed?
     
    Cheechotx, Feb 9, 2023
    #1
  2. Feb 9, 2023 at 6:35 PM
    #2
    4scooter19

    #2
    4scooter19 New Member

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    Most places that Install hitches would also install a brake controller. I don't have a 5th gen 4runner but I would guess they have a factory pigtail for installing one should be under the dash/steering column. It should essentially be plug and play. You may need an adapter harness for whatever controller you get. I recommend the tekonsha primus IQ. I've had them in my last two tow vehicles and have never had an issue.
     
    4scooter19, Feb 9, 2023
    #2
  3. Feb 9, 2023 at 6:55 PM
    #3
    Cheechotx

    #3
    Cheechotx [OP] New Member

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    Great. Thanks.
     
    Cheechotx, Feb 9, 2023
    #3
  4. Feb 9, 2023 at 8:43 PM
    #4
    brownersd

    #4
    brownersd You are the weakest link, buh-bye!

    Joined:
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    Sean
    Humble, Texas
    Vehicle:
    2020 MGM 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium
    Sorry to hear about your hubby, Ms. Liz! Most of them are indeed plug and play. If you'd like something that is clean and integrated with the dash, I went with the RedArc Liberty. The controller mounts behind the dash, and the "control" part of it on one of your blank switches modules. If you feel a little technically adventurous/inclined, you can do it yourself in about 1 hour. The pigtail is behind the foot parking brake.

    Cheers,

    Sean
     
    brownersd, Feb 9, 2023
    #4
    kolter45 and Nubes like this.
  5. Jun 28, 2023 at 9:44 PM
    #5
    Hungryhawk

    #5
    Hungryhawk New Member

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    Southern CA
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    I have a 2017 SR5 (5th gen) and decided to install a brake controller since I am on the lookout to buy a trailer. If I get one when on a trip I can easily hook up. I went for a Hopkins Insight modular so it is completely out of the way and easy to see and activate manual over-ride. For the classic one piece controllers , I could not find a spot under dash that not in the way!
    I am in SoCal and did my own install. The manufacturer can probably help with finding' an installer. It is plug and play with the Toyota provided plug under dash.

    IMG_9598.jpg
     
    Hungryhawk, Jun 28, 2023
    #5
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