Brake control install write up.

I mounted mine this same way. I prefer it.

 

Thanks everybody that contributed to this and other threads on this topic. I installed my control today without any issues thanks for all the directions in this website. Excellent resource. We've just got a 2016 OR after saying goodbye to an awesome 2001 4Runner that worked great for all these years. Anyway, I need to get a few more things such as running boards, so looking forward to learn from all of you. Thanks

Alex

 

OK, so here's a stupid question... what does it do? I did do a search, and some reading, yes... and by my quick reading it detects deceleration and applies the correct amount of braking on the trailer.

I ask because the last time I saw a brake controller it was about 30 years ago, and it had a lever that you could use to apply/feather the trailer brakes, but I don't see such a control on this one.

One more question... if the thing is pretty much "automatic", and requires no user control, why mount it in such a visible location at all? Why not somewhere out of the way? I realize some have a display to indicate functionality, and sometimes the proportion of braking being applied, but it seems to me that that would be a good case for making the display external and remote-able.

 

They still have a manual lever on them.

 

Ahh... l looked again, and now I see it. It's kind of a push-button.

 

That's right

 

The white end of this harness is the correct plug for the 2016 Tacoma. I bought it, cut the black adapter off and wired it to my controller. Works perfectly, took 15 minutes including soldering and heat shrink.

Tekonsha 3017-P Trailer Brake Control Wiring Harness - 2 Plugs, Toyota

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T36OC7O

 

Installed just fine but have a question. Is there any LED activity when a trailer is not connected? Just want to make sure it is working before I used it for the first time.

 

There is not on mine until trailer is plugged in.

 

So I need to order one for my 17 TRD 4x4. Never had one before, is there a recommended controller? Are they mostly the same or should I avoid any brands?? Thx

 

I have brakes on every trailer I own so I added one to mine. I also probably do a fair amount more towing with my truck than most on this board will do. I haul materials for my side job fabricating weekly along with towing my rock crawler to and from OHV areas. The brake control was a necessity for me but I would recommend any one towing a trailer have trailer brakes.

 

This is the way to go now.
Post 221. New methods are out now.
That controller by your leg is a big interference.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/trailer-brake-controller.398124/page-12

 

I bought the Tekonsha p3 and it worked great and I would recommend it. Plus if you look at the link 2016Tacoman posted you can can mount it in the cubby. It can be mounted without the trim piece but it seems a little more secure with it.

 

THIS. Ive been trying to find a write up like this. Great info. Thanks!

 

I Install the Spectrum break controller... really happy with how it works and how good looks.

 

Wow, that looks really nice..

 

Looks good. I think I am about to upgrade to a Redarc in mine.

 

Thanks for the excellent installation pics OP. Very helpful.

 

Not a problem when I did this write up there was several questions being asked about installing controllers and I figured I had the time why not help some folks out if I can.

 

Yes I saw that one too an los Looks real good.