Brake controller install suggestions??

[jzuk]

I DO NOT have the trailer tow package. My pop-up camper state's that it needs a class III hitch (even though it's only about 2,500lbs loaded), plus it has electic brakes. So I did not want the class II hitch, and I knew I'd have to install an electric brake controller.

So I'm looking for suggestions and tips.

Figured I'd install the factory 4 pin wiring, I'd have to buy the 3 relays and the 4 pin wiring harness that plugs in behind the bumper.

Alternatively I could order
T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4 Pole Trailer Connector 118430 : Trailer hitch bike rack and trailer hitches - etrailer.com for $50 or Valley T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness 30131 : Trailer hitch bike rack and trailer hitches - etrailer.com for $22.

From there I'd have to buy a '4 to 7 pin harness adaptor' Brake Controller Installation Wiring Kit Review - etrailer.com
and a brake controller
Draw-Tite Activator Brake Controller Review - etrailer.com

Finally the trailer hitch. It would be nice if there was a class III that was similar to the OEM class II hitch; I like how it is behind the bumper.

So opinions fire away.

[theoldwizard]

Originally Posted by jzuk

...My pop-up camper state's that it needs a class III hitch (even though it's only about 2,500lbs loaded), plus it has electic brakes. So I did not want the class II hitch, and I knew I'd have to install an electric brake controller.

You gotten some bad advice from the very beginning ! The factory installed Trailer Towing Package for the '09 Escape will tow 3,500 lbs. There is no reason to install a Class III hitch unless you were planning on installing a weight distribution hitch (except that most bike racks want a Class III 2" receiver).

By not purchasing the factory option, you also did not get the auxiliary transmission cooler, something I consider a "must have" if you expect to keep your vehicle for a long time. [/quote]

The $50 wire harness has built in vehicle lighting protection which is a nice feature.

Finally the trailer hitch. It would be nice if there was a class III that was similar to the OEM class II hitch; I like how it is behind the bumper

Sorry, all aftermarket hitches (including Class II) are going to be below the bumper.

[jzuk]

I went through this with the sales-rep specifically, the Trans cooler was standard on the '09 (at least for the v6). The $500 option is for the wiring and hitch.

The reason for my wanting the Class III for my trailer is a pain in my A$$. My pop-up camper is just less then 2,400lbs, it has the a storage compartment at the front. The camper maxes out tongue weight (15% of GVW) pushing it a couple of pounds over the 3500lbs. The trailer sticker says it needs a class III hitch.

The oem class II hitch can only take 350lbs tongue weight. You can tow 3500lbs with the minium 350lbs tongue weight. I'd hate to have my load shift or the weight move (like going uphill), its nasty when the tail wags the dog.

The accessories for the 2" receiver are nicer as well.

In my next life I'll go retro with a nice light Boler.